NATO stands resolute towards a secure and stable Afghanistan
NATO leaders, joined today (9 July 2016) by leaders from Resolute Support partner countries at the Warsaw Summit, have reaffirmed their commitment to the long-term security and stability of Afghanistan. Together with Afghanistan’s President Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah, they discussed the security situation in Afghanistan and the reform process carried out by the Afghan National Unity Government. They also took stock of the performance of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces, and laid out the way ahead for their continued support for Afghanistan.
“Afghan security forces are now responsible for security across the whole country,” NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg said. “They are defending the Afghan people with dedication and courage; we continue to train, advise and assist them; but Afghanistan still faces serious instability and violence; so our continued political, military and financial engagement is of great importance,” he added.
Mr. Stoltenberg highlighted three key decisions made. “First, we agreed to sustain our Resolute Support Mission beyond 2016, through a flexible, regional model. Second, we received firm national commitments to continue funding Afghan security forces through 2020. And third, we reaffirmed our support for a long-term political partnership and practical cooperation with Afghanistan,” he said. “So our message is clear: Afghanistan does not stand alone; and we are committed for the long haul,” he added.
Leaders from Japan and South Korea, as well as representatives from key international community partners, including the United Nations and the European Union, also attended the meeting.