Articles
Sticking to the strategy of networked security
Tue, 01.12.2009
Photo: REGIERUNGonline
Discussions on Afghanistan: Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Pakistani Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani
Military efforts to quash terrorism on the one hand and civilian reconstruction of a properly functioning state on the other - this combination continues to provide the framework for international engagement in Afghanistan.
In Afghanistan there is an acute need both to fight terrorism and to stabilise the social and economic fabric of the country. One is not possible without the other, declared Chancellor Angela Merkel after talks with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani. "We must win the hearts of the people,” she added.
"We realise that Pakistan is suffering seriously under the forces of terrorism,” said the Chancellor. She offered Prime Minister Gilani closer cooperation and support, specifically education projects and cooperation in the energy sector.
Afghanistan conference in January
The parties involved in the international mission in Afghanistan intend to decide on the future of the mission and the possibility of withdrawal at the end of January. The British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has invited them to attend a conference in London. In the meantime US President Obama has announced a significant increase in US troops in Afghanistan. He suggested that the USA’s NATO partners should do likewise.
The Chancellor declared, "We have registered the request of the United States of America, but no decision will be taken until after the Afghanistan conference.” Currently no decision is required. The German government intends to make its further commitment dependent on the outcomes of the conference.
Strengthening structures
Germany provides the third largest contingent of troops for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). In the north of Afghanistan, troops of the Federal Armed Forces are ensuring a secure environment for Afghan authorities, the United Nations and other organisations. The UN ISAF mission has been under NATO control since August 2003.
In Berlin, the Chancellor pointed out the underlying concept of networked security, a dovetailing of military efforts and civilian reconstruction work along with support for good governance.
"On the way to a responsible hand-over” is the title of a recently published paper of the German government that looks at the continuation of the mission. Against the backdrop of developments in the country over the last year, the paper is to be incorporated in an international strategy on Afghanistan.
