18 July: At the conclusion of her visit to Turkey, US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton has pledged support to Turkey whilst urging reforms (Hurriyet Daily News)

Borrell underlined that the European Union will make every effort to support the peace process and to remain a committed partner to the Afghan people. "Of course, we will have to take into account the evolving situation, but disengagement is not an option.  We are clear on that: there is no alternative to a negotiated political settlement, through inclusive peace talks.