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12/12/2007
Brown Outlines Afghan Troops Plan
Prime Minister Gordon Brown has explained to MPs the ongoing role of British troops in Afghanistan.
Speaking to MPs after Prime Minister's Questions, the Prime Minister said that priorities for the country entailed Afghan "ownership" of police and security, political reconciliation, reconstruction and international commitment to long-term development."
Mr Brown said: "Britain will continue to fulfil our obligations to the Afghan people and the international community. We will support the Afghan army, police and government as they progressively take over greater responsibility for their own security. And we will work with our international partners and help the Afghans themselves strengthen their stability, foster democracy and build prosperity.
"At all times we will support the hard work, dedication, professional and courage of our Armed Forces who are doing everything in their power to defeat terrorism and lay the foundations of a stable and secure future for Afghanistan."
Mr Brown highlighted a number of key challenges, including the dismantling of the Taliban insurgency and Al Qaeda operations, the reduction of narcotic-producing poppy crops and achieving successful economic reconstruction.
He also announced that the UK would provide £450 million for "development and stabilisation" from 2009 to 2012, and will also maintain a "strong military force" in the country of around the current level of 7,800 armed forces personnel.
The Prime Minister also called for a greater contribution to the security and reconstruction effort from members of the EU, NATO and the wider international community.
Mr Brown also praised the contribution of British troops to Afghanistan in a visit to Helmand province on Monday. In a later press conference with President Karzai in Kabul, Mr Brown reaffirmed the UK's commitment to rebuilding the nation.
(KMcA)
Speaking to MPs after Prime Minister's Questions, the Prime Minister said that priorities for the country entailed Afghan "ownership" of police and security, political reconciliation, reconstruction and international commitment to long-term development."
Mr Brown said: "Britain will continue to fulfil our obligations to the Afghan people and the international community. We will support the Afghan army, police and government as they progressively take over greater responsibility for their own security. And we will work with our international partners and help the Afghans themselves strengthen their stability, foster democracy and build prosperity.
"At all times we will support the hard work, dedication, professional and courage of our Armed Forces who are doing everything in their power to defeat terrorism and lay the foundations of a stable and secure future for Afghanistan."
Mr Brown highlighted a number of key challenges, including the dismantling of the Taliban insurgency and Al Qaeda operations, the reduction of narcotic-producing poppy crops and achieving successful economic reconstruction.
He also announced that the UK would provide £450 million for "development and stabilisation" from 2009 to 2012, and will also maintain a "strong military force" in the country of around the current level of 7,800 armed forces personnel.
The Prime Minister also called for a greater contribution to the security and reconstruction effort from members of the EU, NATO and the wider international community.
Mr Brown also praised the contribution of British troops to Afghanistan in a visit to Helmand province on Monday. In a later press conference with President Karzai in Kabul, Mr Brown reaffirmed the UK's commitment to rebuilding the nation.
(KMcA)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
