We define success as an Afghanistan that can stand on its own feet, providing security, effective democratic governance and opportunities for Afghan families to earn their own livelihoods. While we should seek an enduring partnership with Afghanistan to advance our common strategic, political and economic interests, we wish to see the Afghan people assume responsibility for their own national development as soon as possible. Afghans share this perspective. If success in Afghanistan is a ten-mile journey, we have just passed the fourth milestone. If we maintain our present pace in coming years, the case of Afghanistan will show that we can help a nation lay the foundation for sustainable institutions that support our common interests and accord with U.S. values.