US welcomes Afghan decision to drop charges against convert

Washington, Mar 28 (UNI) The United States has welcomed the decision to by Afghani government drop charges against Abdur Rahman, who converted to Christianity from Islam.

''The US is pleased that authorities in Afghanistan have dropped plans to prosecute an Afghan citizen, who converted to Christianity from Islam 16 years ago,'' the US State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said here yesterday, while briefing reporters.

He said the US is concerned on Abdur Rahman's continued well being after his release, and looks forward to continuing to work with Afghanistan to see that fundamental freedoms are respected in this young democracy.

Replying to a question Mr McCormack said, ''the understanding is that Rahman would be released, where he might go after that is up to him. And I understand now, the details of his release and any potential onward travel are being handled as a private matter.'' UNI XC AD KP1110