Obama makes 'surprise' Kabul visit

Barack Obama, the US president, has called on his Afghan counterpart, Hamid Karzai, to crack down on corruption in an effort to promote the rule of law in the country. Obama met Karzai on Sunday in Kabul shortly after arriving at the Afghan capital from the nearby Bagram airbase on a previously unannounced visit to the country. On his arrival, Obama was greeted by General Stanley McChrystal, the US commander on the ground in Afghanistan, and Karl Eikenberry, the US ambassador. Obama praised Karzai for making progress in Afghanistan, in the military campaign against Taliban and al-Qaeda fighters as well in access to improved services to Afghans. "The American people are encouraged by the progress that has been made," he said. But he also urged Karzai to "continue to make progress" on good governance, the fight against corruption and the rule of law. Karzai thanked Obama for US support and said he hopes the partnership would continue between the two countries. The White House said later that Karzai will come to Washington on May 12 for more talks.