Editor in Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida Thursday, March 28th, 2024

Russia Supports Extension of ISAF Mandate in Afghanistan

Russia Supports Extension of ISAF Mandate in  Afghanistan

MOSCOW - Russia has backed the UN Security Council's decision to extend the mandate of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. "We believe that the extension of the ISAF mandate will facilitate stabilization in the country in close cooperation with the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, advancement of the Afghan stabilization process and ensure regional security and stability," Russian Foreign Ministry said today in a statement.

The Security Council unanimously approved Resolution 2011 on October 12, extending the ISAF mandate by one year until October 13, 2012.

"The Security Council stressed that the main responsibility for security and law and order lies on the country's authorities," the statement said.

"With regard to the ISAF withdrawal from Afghanistan, which has already started, the resolution clearly states that the transition period must allow time for proper professional training of the Afghan law enforcement agencies to enable them to build up effort to counter the security threats remaining in the country," it added.

"The Security Council points to the continued violence and terrorist activity on the part of the Taliban movement and Al-Qaida and emphasizes a close link between terrorism and illicit production, trafficking and trade in drugs, which poses a threat to international peace and stability," the statement noted.

The UNSC resolution also contains a provision about the special role of regional organizations, including the CSTO (Collective Security Treaty Organization) and SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization), in the cause of stabilizing the situation in and around Afghanistan. (UNI)