Obama and Karzai just signed the Strategic partnership agreement in front of Afghan and Us flags. Took place just after midnight local time

Obama called it "a historic moment for our two nations."

Obama: "I'm here to affirm the bond between our two countries and to thank Americans and Afghans who have sacrificed so much over these last ten years."

More potus: "Neither americans nor the afghan people asked for this war yet for a decade we've stood together. Today with the signing of the strategic partnership agreement we look forward to a future of peace. Today we're agreeing to be long term partners."

Potus: "With this agreement the Afghan people and the world should know that Afghanistan has a partner in the United States....mr president there will be difficult days ahead....as we move forward I'm confident afghan forces will grow stronger and the afghan people will take control of their future...."

There were warm handshakes all around. The reportedly mercurial Karzai seemed to be in an ebullient mood and offered profuse thanks to negotiators on the agreement, including Amb Crocker and Gen. Allen.

Several minutes was spent initialing and signing

"I'm including the dates as well, please bear with me," Karzai said to Obama in English.

Obama also gave another hearty handshake and said, "thank you my friend," to Karzai

Senators Reed and Levin were present. Levin called the agreement "a significant step forward for the United States and our national security."