UN Secretary General Ban Ki- moon Wednesday welcomed the new U.S. plan for Afghanistan announced by President Barack Obama Tuesday evening, his spokesperson said, Xinhua reported.
   The secretary-general "notes with appreciation the proposed approach to balance military and civilian efforts and the emphasis on strengthening the capacity of Afghan institutions and Afghan security forces in particular," said a statement issued by Ban's spokesperson.
   Ban strongly felt that institution-building "is a long-term but necessary process that will ultimately ensure the sustainability of the international community's joint efforts in Afghanistan."
   He said the United Nations remains committed to support all efforts to transition to increased Afghan ownership, responsibility and leadership in achieving lasting peace, stability and development in the country. 
   After months of review, President Obama on Tuesday renewed his strategy for Afghanistan by sending 30,000 additional troops to the country in a decisive war against al-Qaida network and extremists.
   The military supplement will bring the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan to nearly 100,000.