LASHKARGAH - NATO’s Special Civilian Representative (SCR) Cornelius Zimmermann expressed these views at a meeting with local officials in Lashkargah, the capital of southern Helmand province.
He stressed over greater participation of people in the forthcoming parliamenry elections which he termed as vital for stability, peace and democracy of Afghanistan. The NATO envoy met provincial officials, ulema, tribal elders and youth.
Zimmermann revealed that 3,090 fresh NATO forces would soon be reaching Afghanistan to join those already in Afghanistan to train and advise the Afghan security forces.
He said mounting the military pressure on the Taliban would help force the rebles into negotiations.
Helmand Governor Hayatullah Hayat demanded military operations in some parts of Helmand to ensure free and fair polls.
“We discussed multiple issues with the NATO representative and we should begin work without wasting more time,” said Hayat.
A US military representative at the meeting said Afghan security forces had strengthened and the security of Helmand had improved this year compared to the past.
He said as a result of the train and advice mission, Afghan forces would gain more strength and people’s trust in them would restore.  (Pajhwok)