HERAT CITY - A group of the Transatlantic Opinion Leaders to Afghanistan (TOLA) wrapped up a two day visit to western Herat province after meetings with ISAF commanders and local officials, the Italian-led command said on Wednesday.

The visit by the international consultants in security, development and administration sectors from ISAF troop contributing nations was aimed at strengthening NATO member states' commitment to fulfill the Lisbon Roadmap, including their support to Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) even after the conclusion of the mission in 2014, the command said in a statement.

Upon their arrival at 'Camp Arena', on Tuesday, the distinguished guests were welcomed by Colonel Bertolini, deputy commander of RC-W and Dr. Cazzaniga from NATO Senior Civilian Representative Office in the western region.

Cazzaniga presented them an update about the region activities with focus on the transition process before they met the Herat governor, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) representatives, ANSF leaders and representatives of the RC-W mostly involved components in the field of reconstruction and transition, such as the Provincial Reconstruction Team -- CIMIC Detachment and the Female Engagement Team of the Military Advisory Team, the statement said.

"This morning the representatives of the TOLA met Lieutenant General Marco Bertolini, commander of the Italian Joint Force Headquarters, visiting the Italian contingent."

The group remarked today Afghan forces were able to cope with challenges that they had not been able to cope with in the past, thanks to ISAF military commitment.

Before leaving for Kabul, the opinion leaders congratulated Brigadier General Ignazio Gamba, commander of RC-W, on the objectives achieved by the international contingent in his area of responsibility. (Pajhwok)