Afghan President Hamid Karzai says donors must help his country fight corruption

TOKYO – Afghan President Hamid Karzai says he is encouraged by the promise of $16 billion in international aid, but warns corruption in his country cannot be rooted out unless donors themselves take more action.

Karzai says fighting corruption remains a top priority, but notes his government is not solely to blame. He says the selection process for projects can lead to influence-buying and higher wages for foreign workers that fuels resentment.

Speaking Monday, he said he is grateful for the pledges made at a conference the day before to help his country’s transition after most foreign troops pull out by the end of 2014.

The aid, to be provided over the next four years, is tied to a new monitoring process to assure Afghanistan is on the right track.