French Prime Minister Pledges Long-Term Support to Afghanistan

French Prime Minister Francois Fillon, along with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, emphasized the importance of stability and reconciliation in Afghanistan, with Fillon affirming that French troops would remain in the country as long as their assistance was needed. The visit, marked by a joint press conference, underscored the long-standing relationship between France and Afghanistan, with both leaders reiterating their commitment to supporting the war-torn country's reconstruction and security efforts.

Key Takeaways:

• French Prime Minister Francois Fillon assured that around 3,750 troops from his country would remain in Afghanistan as long as their presence was required.
• Fillon emphasized the importance of the reconciliation plan presented at the London conference, hoping that it would facilitate peace between the Taliban and the Afghan government.
• The London conference on January 28 discussed various plans aimed at stabilizing Afghanistan, which Fillon described as a success and stating that France supports it.
• Fillon discussed the expansion of cooperation between France and Afghanistan in training and equipping Afghan security forces.
• President Hamid Karzai hailed France as a longtime friend of Afghanistan and expressed gratitude for its assistance in rebuilding the country over the past eight years.
• Karzai suggested willingness to reintegrate low-level fighters who renounced violence and had no links to terrorist networks into the national mainstream.
• France announced the deployment of around 80 military trainers to Afghanistan to help build up the national security forces.

Statistics:

• Approximately 3,750 French troops are stationed in Afghanistan.
• As many as 39 French soldiers have been killed in action in Afghanistan since 2001.
• France announced the deployment of around 80 military trainers to Afghanistan.
• The London conference on January 28 discussed various plans aimed at stabilizing Afghanistan.

Sources:

• "Abasin Zaheer - Feb 11, 2010". Pajhwok Afghan News.
• "Prime Minister meets Afghan pres." Pajhwok Afghan News.