Petraeus: Waiting for progress in Afghanistan like watching "paint dry"

Posted By Blake Hounshell Monday, September 20, 2010 - 4:08 AM Share

In an interview with ABC's Martha Raddatz, Gen. David Petraeus admits that progress in southern Afghanistan has been a little slow:

I think there's no question that in Helmand Province, the six central districts of Helmand Province-- are a good bit more secure than they were even six months ago," he said.

"Marja -- as hard fought and as embattled as it has been, three days ago opened up its high school for the first time in six years. Three other schools will open for students ... . It has an interim police station. The market is no longer a market in which the narcotics industry puts its wares on sale."

"Very hard fought gains," he continued. "Very difficult and sometimes seeming to be as slow as watching grass grow or paint dry."

EXPLORE:AFGHANISTAN
 

Passport, FP’s flagship blog, brings you news and hidden angles on the biggest stories of the day, as well as insights and under-the-radar gems from around the world.

Read More