NATO keeps troops beyond 2016

NATO will keep troops in Afghanistan after 2016 and its military presence may increase, according to National Directorate Security (NDS).

Spokesman of National Security Adviser declared that the commitments by NATO have been carried out in security adviser’s trip to Brussels.

National Security Adviser, Hanif Atmar visited NATO and Europe Union officials in Brussels to attract international community assistance, particularly NATO in combat against terrorism.

Tawab Ghorzang, spokesman of Security Adviser noted that India is also ready to increase its assistance beside a joint combat against terrorism.

Afghanistan has repeatedly emphasized that afghan troops have the ability to provide the security of the country but due to the deteriorating security situation and the external intervention these forces need the international community’s military help.

There are about 24,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan, down from a peak of about 100,000 in 2010 and 2011, according to the Pentagon.

Afghan security forces are already leading operations throughout the country as U.S. forces have largely withdrawn from direct combat.

The NATO troops staying in Afghanistan beyond next year will continue to focus on counterterrorism missions and training and advising Afghan security forces.

Reported by Rafi Sidiqi