Minister for Defence meets with NATO Defence Ministers in Istanbul
6 February 2010
The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, underlined Australia's commitment to the security and stability of Afghanistan during the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and non-NATO International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Defence Minister's meeting in Istanbul today.
Defence Ministers from ISAF contributing nations met to discuss the international effort in Afghanistan, focusing on ISAF implementation of President Obama's new strategy.
Senator Faulkner took the opportunity to reinforce Australia's commitment in Afghanistan, and the expectation that Australia would continue to be consulted in NATO decision-making processes.
The new strategy aims to strengthen the capacity of the Afghan Government and Afghan National Security Forces to take responsibility for security in Afghanistan.
Senator Faulkner said the meeting was a valuable opportunity for nations to discuss how best their contributions could align with, and support, the new strategy.
"Australia's own commitment of around 1550 troops - focussed on training the Afghan National Army in Oruzgan Province - aligns closely with this strategy.
"NATO and ISAF are working to help develop a detailed plan for a conditions-based transition to Afghan-led security.
"It was important for Australia to participate in these talks to ensure our interests in Afghanistan continue to be met."
Senator Faulkner also met with a range of Ministerial counterparts from Regional Command (South) to discuss the year ahead, including the focus on training of the Afghan National Security Forces.
