Azerbaijan, Baku, April 22 / Trend , D.Ibrahimova/
The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Commander in Afghanistan Gen. David D. McKiernan in an exclusive interview with the Trend Persian department.
Trend : One month ago you told in an interview that Allies are "not winning" in Afghanistan. In another interview you told that you were in Afghanistan "to win". How do you think, what should be done in order to prevent the current instability in the country? What steps should be taken so that the world could have seen real results and improvement in Afghanistan?
Gen. David D. McKiernan: All nations stand to benefit from 'a win' in Afghanistan, and such a win can only be measured in Afghan terms.This means real and lasting security, maintained by Afghans themselves, as well as effective governance that can meet the needs of the people in terms of socio-economic progress and improving prospects for the future.We have a common enemy in violent extremists, and we are committed to aiding the Afghan people in confronting those who would deny them these opportunities.
That being said, we are not there yet, but we are making progress.The Afghan National Army is a growing, capable, respected national institution.Increasingly, it is ANA taking the lead in operations to rid their country of insurgents.This is a true success story for Afghanistan.Concurrently, we must do more to grow, reform and develop the Afghan National Police, so that they may achieve such successes.The recognition that this is a regional problem, requiring cooperation and dialogue with nations such as Pakistan, is another positive step.Such close interaction denies insurgents sanctuary within that nation, and tackles a threat to both the people of Afghanistan and Pakistan.Pakistan is achieving success in the tribal areas, but much work remains.
The people of Afghanistan have known decades of conflict and unfortunately change takes time.We will continue to support the government of Afghanistan in their efforts in security and stability, as well as working with the United Nations and the international community in assisting with development and reconstruction initiatives.
Q: What is your estimation of the idea of engaging the moderate talibans in talks with the government? Can it be objectively the first step in preventing the representatives of Taliban movement of acting radically like they do now?
A: It is true that the challenges facing Afghanistan cannot be addressed solely by bullets and bombs.Ultimately, a political solution is required for any nation to move beyond violence.Afghanistan is no different, but such a reconciliation effort can only be an Afghan decision.This is a matter for the Afghan Government and it would be inappropriate for a military force such as ISAF to have any influence in political reconciliation discussions.It would however, be very powerful for ISAF to support efforts at the local fighter level.This would separate "foot soldiers" from insurgent leadership.We hope that these local fighters recognize the benefits of a stable nation, under the legal constitution of Afghanistan, and lay down their arms.For those who are irreconcilable, it is the Afghan National Security Forces and ISAF that will deal with them.
Q: The presidential elections in Afghanistan will be held in August. Do you believe that any candidate will make anything what can change the current situation in the country? How do you see the future of Afghanistan after the elections?
A: ISAF does not support any particular candidate in the upcoming elections, but rather supports free, fair and secure elections as a whole.Our capacity in the elections is only one of support, as we aid the ANSF in what is an Afghan-led process.What is of paramount importance is that the Afghan people are being afforded the democratic right to decide who will represent them in government.Further to this, an endorsement of a duly elected government is a rejection of the insurgents.With 4.5 million newly registered voters this year, I believe the people have already begun to cast their vote against the Taliban and similar extremists.After decades of violence and upheaval, this is a true sign of progress in this country.
In terms of the future for Afghanistan after the elections, I am optimistic.A failed state is not an option.The issues facing authorities in Afghanistan are evident.The people are calling for greater efforts to improve governance in their regions, improvements in the delivery of services and greater accountability.Corruption remains a problem as it undermines development and the needs of the people.Whatever form the next administration takes must take up these challenges and I believe that will be positive for the country.
Q: After the closure of Manas airbase in Kyrgyzstan there were talks on using the territory of Iran for supplying goods for NATO troops in Afghanistan. How do you think, what is the possibility of supplying NATO goods to Afghanistan through Iran?
A: NATO forces in Afghanistan benefit from robust and mature supply lines.Our logistic support to the mission comes via Pakistan in the south and through neighboring states to the north. The facility in Manas was just one of numerous means by which ISAF forces are sustained in Afghanistan.NATO recognizes that Iran has a shared interest in the regional approach to Afghanistan and welcomes dialogue.As far as supplies being transported through Iranian territory, such routes are the result of bi-lateral negotiations and would come as a result of alliance nations entering agreements with Iran.To this point, no routes have been established via Iranian territory.
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