NATO Chief Stresses on Political Reforms in Afghanistan

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says the alliance is backing Afghanistan’s elections by supporting its security forces to ensure a “secure environment” for its parliamentary and presidential elections.

Speaking at a press conference prior to the meetings of NATO defense ministers in Brussels, Stoltenberg was asked about NATO support for Afghanistan’s elections and he said,” we are underlining again and again the importance of political reforms and building democratic institutions in Afghanistan, fighting corruption and making sure that the democratic institutions are working as they should.”

He emphasized that election is a core element in a democratic society and therefore Afghanistan should be able to hold its “presidential and parliamentary elections”.

NATO Chief retreated that the best thing the alliance can do is to step up its efforts to train, assist and advise Afghan security forces as NATO is increasing its presence in Afghanistan.

In addition, Stoltenberg said the issue of Afghanistan would be discussed during Thursday session.

“Tomorrow, we will meet our Resolute Support partners to discuss our mission in Afghanistan. The security situation remains volatile. But Afghan forces are making progress and are denying the Taliban their strategic goals,” he said.

According to NATO chief, the Taliban has failed to reach its goals in Afghanistan which is to take control of provincial capitals.

On Wednesday, he said NATO allies will increase its troop level by some 3,000 personnel as a clear message to the Taliban insurgent that they will not win on the battleground. He added that about half the additional troops will come from the U.S. and the other half from non-U.S. NATO allies and partner countries.