Ghani assuages concerns over security transition

KUNDUZ CITY (PAN): Some residents are concerned about the security transfer to Afghan forces in northern Kunduz province, the transition commission head said on Wednesday.

Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai told reporters locals had voiced their concerns over the transfer, believing Afghan forces were unable to maintain security on their own.

But Ghani asked the people to have faith in their own security forces, insisting they were capable of defending their motherland.

Also a renowned economist, he said the transition process had so far been a success. However, he acknowledged that more efforts were required to see long-term results of the process.

“Our forces will be unable to independently keep security as long as they are not provided with modern equipment. They need more training, something we’re trying to provide,” he explained.

The ex-minister of finance said the issue of funding Afghan forces would be discussed at the upcoming NATO.

Dominic Medley, NATO senior civilian representative’s spokesman, on Monday told at a press three issues would be discussed at the summit — member nations’ commitments to Afghanistan during security transition and beyond, the ability of Afghan forces to secure the country’s borders and the struggle to deal with challenges of the 21st century.

At Chicago, Medley said, the alliance would confirm its strong partnership with Afghanistan long after the transition was completed.

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