20 May 2010 - The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Staffan de Mistura, visited Kandahar today to assess the situation on the ground and meet with local leaders and authorities and UN staff members.

During his day-long trip, Mr de Mistura reassured the people of Kandahar of the commitment and intention of UNAMA and UN agencies to be actively present in this region despite the insecurity.

Conveying a message of solidarity, Mr de Mistura stressed: "The UN has been here in this country and, particularly in the southern region, for a long time, and will continue to be there in support and by the side of the people of Kandahar even when times get difficult."

Earlier in the day, the Special Representative had constructive discussions with Governor Tooryalai Wesa and the Chairman of Kandahar's Provincial Council Ahmad Wali Karzai.

The Special Representative also met with tribal elders and heard their concerns on the security situation and access to humanitarian relief.