NATO FMs to discuss future of ISAF mission

KABUL.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Zalmai Rassoul and representatives from the United Nations and the European Union would also attend the meeting, a spokesman for NATO’s senior civilian representative said on Monday.

Dominic Medley told reporters in Kabul the ministers would discuss the significant milestone expected later this year, when the Afghan forces take the lead for security across the country.

“By the end of 2014, the Afghan forces will be fully responsible for security in their country. But NATO’s commitment to support them will continue to the end of 2014 and beyond,” he said.

The spokesman indicated the participants would reach an agreement on the means to ensure transparency and accountability in the way the future financing for the Afghan security forces was managed.

In a separate meeting, the ministers will also talk to their Russian counterpart on launching the second phase of the NATO-Russia Council Helicopter Maintenance Trust Fund for Afghanistan.

“With this decision, the number of activities in support of a capable and self-sustainable Afghan Air Force will be expanded. That could include the development of medical evacuation capabilities, which is of vital importance to the Afghan forces,” Medley said.

Zalmai Rassoul, European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton and UN Secretary General’s Special Representative Jan Kubis have also been invited to the session.

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