I met with people in the Afghan forces at all levels, and they have an increased interest in establishing their operational capability. I interacted with the chief of defence on several occasions and with the Minister of Defence in Afghanistan. In all cases, they are absolutely and totally committed to developing their forces and the operational capability. To do so, they need a great deal of help, training, equipment and professional training. Over the last three years the Afghan military went from being practically non-existent to a force 30,000 strong. This number should rise to 70,000 under the aegis of the United States, the responsible G8 nation.
I constantly keep abreast of reports on Afghan operational capability. They are very competent during operations. Not only are people motivated, but they are absolutely committed to doing everything they can. Many of them lose their lives, like NATO forces, and I can confirm this for you.
Commanding officers tell us that Afghans who head operations, specifically those where they have to deal with opponents, do everything they can. What they are missing now is mobility, helicopters, aircraft and professional training. In my opinion you can't deny the fact that they want to become able, as soon as possible, to defend their country and ensure its long-term success. That is also true for police officers and border guards.
I should point out that the Afghan army's training and level of professionalism is advancing well. But, because police forces are probably two or three years behind the army, there is still a great deal of work to be done, with the support of the European Union mission which will be deployed in a few months.