31 Mar. 2004

NATO will continue to play its part in Afghanistan, says Secretary General News 30/03/04 - NATO NATO Secretary General to visit Berlin Background NATO In Afghanistan Opinions 31/03/04 Remarks by NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer at the Afghanistan Conference - Berlin Key links International Conference on Afghanistan in Berlin Speaking at the international donor’s conference on Afghanistan in Berlin on 31 March, NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said NATO is determined to make its Afghanistan mission a success. The Secretary General travelled to Berlin to take part in the opening of the conference and a session on the political perspectives for Afghanistan. He also met with President Karzai to discuss the situation in the country and NATO’s engagement. “Afghanistan is a top priority for NATO. Our own security is closely linked to the future of Afghanistan as a stable, secure country where citizens can rebuild their lives after decades of war,” the Secretary General said in his address to the conference. Extending security beyond Kabul Mr. de Hoop Scheffer said that progress had been achieved in many areas, but that formidable challenges remain. He said the Alliance is now working hard to expand its presence on the ground. NATO’s goal is to take charge of more of the so-called Provincial Reconstruction Teams, which are helping to spread security and stability to the country’s provinces. In his meeting with President Karzai, the Secretary General discussed the situation in the country and particularly the preparations for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections announced for September. The Secretary General assured Mr. Karzai that the Alliance would support the electoral process within its means and capabilities.