Xhaçka: We will increase our presence by 60% in Afghanistan in 2018

23 December 2017

"We will increase our presence by 60% in Afghanistan in 2018," said the Defense Minister, Olta Xhaçka during reception ceremony of the 6th Contingent that completed the mission in Kabul and at the same time the departing ceremony of the 3rd Contingent on mission in Herat, Afghanistan.

23 December 2017

"We will increase our presence by 60% in Afghanistan in 2018," said the Defense Minister, Olta Xhaçka during reception ceremony of the 6th Contingent that completed the mission in Kabul and at the same time the departing ceremony of the 3rd Contingent on mission in Herat, Afghanistan.

"This is a moment that makes us feel proud of our achievements and contribution that the AAF provide to support our allies in establishing peace, security and help return to normal a very hot spot in the globe. Such ceremonies, as seeing off the contingents to the next missions, always carry an added value, the increase of experience, the raise of the professionalism of our troops in the theater of operations. We remain committed to continue contributing by increasing on 60% our presence in Afghanistan for 2018, thus responding positively to President Trump's new strategy on Afghanistan. Representation in these missions has now become a symbol of professionalism and dedication of our military", - said the Defense Minister.

A nice surprise was reserved during the ceremony, one of the effectives departing to Afghanistan, Eligert Çelaj, celebrated the 24th birthday a few minutes before traveling to Herat.
The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Italy in our country, His Excellence Alberto Cutillo and Deputy Ambassador of Turkey in our country His Excellency, Sinan Cem Baş. Also present were military attaches of the Republic of Italy and Turkey to our country.