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

: Published: Wednesday, 22 November 2017 12:23

Next year, Albania will increase its presence in Afghanistan by 60%. This increase was confirmed by Defence Minister Xhaçka during her 24-hour visit to the country. She said also that it will be also a contingent from the Special Forces among them.

Minister Xhaçka was received at a special meeting by the NATO Resolute Support Mission Commander, General John Nicholson, who after appreciating the contribution of the Albanian troops to Afghanistan from 2002, said, among other things: "Congratulations, Mrs. Minister, for the contribution of your country. In my staff I have many officers, and I'm glad to admit that Albanian officers are the most qualified."

On her part, Minister Xhaçka said that engagements in operations over the years have brought more responsibilities and obligations. "The decision to increase troops in Kabul and Herat is our response on behalf of the strategic partnership with the US, as we have supported the US Government strategy in Southeast Asia."

The Defense Minister was also received by Ambassador Cornelius Zimmermann the NATO's highest Civilian Representative in Afghanistan, and Hamid Karzai International Airport Commander, and also from Train Advise Assist - Capital Commander.

AAF are engaged as a staff of 83 troops in Afghanistan, specifically in Kabul, Heart, or Mazar-i-Sharif.

Following the decision to increase troops in 2018, Albania's contribution is expected to focus on "Force Protection", counselling, and assistance at the West Command in Herat, or in the operations squad.