NATO Chief Pledges Continued Financial Support to Afghan Forces

The NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg arrived in Afghanistan together with the Chairman of the Military Committee, General Petr Pavel to meet with the Afghan officials. 
Speaking at a press conference with Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, Stoltenberg said "Together, we assessed the security situation, reviewed the government’s reform efforts, and discussed NATO’s continuing support to Afghanistan." Admitting that 2015 was a difficult and tough year for the Afghan forces, Stoltenberg said the Afghan forces are standing strong to protect the Afghan people as they took full charge of security across the country despite significant challenges. 
"At a great cost, we have made great progress together in the fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg said, adding that "We owe our deep gratitude to the brave men and women of our armed forces." He said NATO will continue to provide financial support to the Afghan forces as the alliance continues to support the Afghan forces with training, advice and assistance through the Resolute Support mission. 
Encouraging the work of the National Unity Government, Stoltenberg said Afghanistan’s long-term success requires further reforms, noting his discussions with President Ghani. 
"It means stepping up Afghan investment in the security forces. And it also means ensuring that human rights, including for women and children, are fully respected," he added. 
Stoltenberg also touched the ongoing efforts to revive the Afghan peace talks, saying "The peace process is another key element in securing the country for the longer term. I welcome recent signs of progress.

Source: QNA