Afghanistan. Additional Norwegian troop contribution to ISAF

The Government has decided to respond positively with a request from NATO to increase Norway’s contribution to ISAF by providing a special forces contingent in the Kabul area. NATO has been informed via the Norwegian Permanent Delegation to NATO that the forces are being provided subject to the following five conditions:

 

1. Norway will provide a special forces contingent for a six-month period in the Kabul area. The forces are being provided on condition that they are stationed and assigned to missions in this area. They are not to be stationed in other parts of the country. If a critical situation should arise that could require employing the contingent outside the Kabul area, the consent of the Norwegian authorities must be sought in advance.
2. 2. The special forces contingent will comprise about 150 personnel and the necessary equipment.
3. 3. Its main task will be assisting the Afghan security forces.
4. They are to be used to defend and maintain stability in the capital, and thus protect not only the civilian population, but also the Afghan Government, ISAF and the efforts of the international community.
5. 4. The main focus of Norway’s military contribution must be to help open a larger political space that the Afghan Government can use to promote reconciliation and development. This is in keeping with the importance the Norwegian Government attaches to striking a sound balance between civil and military measures. A Norwegian special forces contingent will help to safeguard and support this comprehensive, balanced strategy.
6. 5. Norway will not have the capacity to make any further military contributions in 2007 beyond what has now been announced.