Sunday, February 16, 2020
Kabul (BNA) Defense Ministers wrapped up two days of discussions in Brussels on Thursday (13 February 2020) addressing key issues including NATO’s training mission in Iraq, support for Afghanistan, and the challenge posed by Russia’s missile systems.
Allied ministers agreed in principle to enhance NATO Mission Iraq. “In the first instance, this will consist of taking on some of the Global Coalition’s current training activities,” said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. He underlined that NATO is in Iraq at the invitation of the Iraqi government. “Our aim is to increase the capacity of the Iraqi armed forces so that they no longer require our support,” he said.
Afghanistan was also high on the agenda, with a meeting of all nations contributing to NATO’s Resolute Support Mission. “NATO remains committed to Afghanistan’s long-term security and stability. Our focus remains the same: to provide the Afghan security forces with training and financial support, so that they can fight terrorism and create the conditions for peace,” said the Secretary General. He stressed that Allies fully support the efforts led by the United States to achieve a peaceful solution, and continue to coordinate closely on the way forward. “We welcome any steps that can lead to the reduction of violence – the Taliban have to show a real will and a real ability to deliver a reduction of violence on the ground,” he added.
