I would just reinforce the view that this is the most dangerous region in the world. You have nuclear weapon states surrounding Afghanistan—some actual, some potential. Unquestionably, the open border between Afghanistan and Pakistan is, next to the shortage of troops, probably the most serious deficiency in the mission to try to counter the insurgency in Afghanistan.
One of the reasons for the recommendation on augmenting troops is obviously to provide a capacity to help patrol that border with the Afghans that we don't have today. As long as that border is as wide open as it is, the insurgents will constantly be refinanced, retrained, and regrouped and will come back into Kandahar to create mischief.
I just want to emphasize, though, in addition, John's final comment.
Our first recommendation, the very first recommendation in the panel report, speaks to the need for a diplomatic effort, led by the Prime Minister, not only with respect directly to Afghanistan and the need for a more comprehensive strategy there and more coordination, but precisely so that we work in concert with our allies to exercise representations with Pakistan in a manner that is sensitive to Pakistan's sovereignty but helps address the root of the issue, a large part of which is in Pakistan.
As our chairman said, we are encouraged by the result of the election, particularly the result of the election in the border regions. We hope that's a promising sign, but everybody knows we're a long way from any kind of total joy about stability in Pakistan.
I would just want to re-emphasize to your committee that this is the most dangerous region in the world that we're talking about. This is not picnic grounds. A lot of people focus a lot of attention elsewhere, but when you consider the countries that surround Pakistan and the capacity for mischief that is in that region, you understand the complexity and the tension that goes with the mission we're performing.