(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS, Nov 9 (KUNA) -- NATO defence ministers and partners in NATOآ's Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan discussed Thursday the current situation in the country and agreed to increase troop numbers to the mission.
Speaking at a press conference after the meeting, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said they addressed four key issues: the troop level of our mission, funding for the Afghan forces, progress on reforms and reconciliation, and continued engagement with Pakistan.
Currently, around 13,000 troops from 39 different countries serve in the Resolute Support Mission. Allies welcomed the United States briefing on the implications of the new South Asia Strategy on our mission. This has already led to an increase in the US troop contribution.
"27 other nations have also committed to increase troop numbers in the coming months. So the size of our Resolute Support Mission will increase, from around 13,000 to around 16,000 troops," he said.
He noted that Pakistan has a key role to play in ensuring the Taliban find no safe havens.
The NATO chief said that defence ministers from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar joined todayآ's meeting.
"They are seeking to contribute to the Resolute Support Mission. And their presence was a strong symbol of global support to the government and the people of Afghanistan," he stressed.
In a separate press conference, Afghan acting defence minister Tariq Shah Bahrami also welcomed the support by the two Gulf countries.
He told a press conference that Qatar and UAE ministers are ready to support Afghanistan government in its fight against terrorism and they are ready to give their support.
"We are welcoming it. Both countries are our friends and we have good relations and their support is important for us," he added.
In another press conference, the commander of NATOآ's Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan general John Nicholson said: "The cost of failure in Afghanistan will be great. It will be felt worldwide. The security of Afghanistan is key in deterring terrorist activities," he said.
"We have a renewed commitment to Afghanistan. The bottom line is that Taliban cannot win," added the NATO general. (end) nk.mt
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