BRUSSELS, 02 December 2020, (TON): NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, at the first session of the NATO foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday, said: “We call on Taliban to reduce violence, but of course, that’s only the first step.” Stoltenberg said that NATO supports the Afghan peace process and, as part of that, the NATO adjusted its presence. 

“What we need to see is a lasting peace agreement. And part of that has to be a ceasefire. So, the reduction of violence should only be the first step,” Stoltenberg said. 

He added “The ambition is intra-Afghan peace solution. And, of course, that has to include a comprehensive ceasefire.” 

He said that NATO supports the Afghan peace process and, as part of that, NATO adjusted its presence in Afghanistan. 

“While United States has decided to further reduce its troop numbers to 2,500, NATO’s training mission continues. And over half of our forces are, now, non-US. Ministers made clear that all Allies remain committed to the mission. And to supporting Afghan security forces in the fight against terrorism. As we continue to assess the situation in Afghanistan, it is clear that we will face a turning point early next year,” he said. 

Once again, he said: “If we stay, we risk continued fighting. And an even longer-term engagement. If we leave, we risk Afghanistan once again becoming a safe haven for international terrorists. And the loss of the gains made with such sacrifice.” 

He also mentioned that all the NATO allies including the US are committed to continuing support for the Afghan security forces. 

NATO defense ministers are likely to make a final decision about the future of the Resolute Support Mission in February, after President-elect Joe Biden takes office. European diplomats expect the tone to change under Biden, but probably not the U.S. intention to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible. 

Since the attacks of 1st September, 2001 in the US, NATO countries have been engaged militarily in Afghanistan under a mandate from the UN.