In Afghanistan, at least sixteen people were killed today when a suicide bomber struck a crowded square in the western province of Farah. At least twenty-three others were wounded. The attack followed Thursday’s killings of two US soldiers in Zabul province and another suicide attack that killed ten civilians. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, meanwhile, has wrapped up a visit to Afghanistan for Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s re-inauguration. Karzai won national elections in August amidst widespread allegations of fraud. On Thursday, Clinton said the Afghan government is moving forward on tackling corruption.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton: “[Karzai] was particularly strong on the steps that he intends to take regarding corruption. The idea that government officials will have to register their assets so that any money or other influence can be more easily tracked is a very bold proposal. So we are heartened by what we see as the agenda for change and reform that was outlined by President Karzai.”