Croatian Defence Minister and Chief of General Staff conclude their visit to Afghanistan.
On the last day of their visit to Afghanistan, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Damir Krstičević and Chief of General Staff General Mirko Šundov met in Kabul with the commander of the Resolute Support mission, General John W. Nicholson, with whom they discussed current issues and activities related to the mission, reports Večernji List on December 17, 2016.
General Nicholson thanked Minister Krstičević and General Šundov for their commitment to the alliance, the defence of common values and consistent contribution of the Croatian Armed Forces to the success of the mission. He noted that he respected the engagement of members of the Croatian contingent in Afghanistan, their professionalism and focus on the tasks.
Minister Krstičević pointed out that it was an honour to see the effects of efforts made by members of the Croatian contingent in Afghanistan, who work on building institutions of the country, but also contribute to global stability and security. “The effects I speak about are recognized and acknowledged by the allies, partners, but also by ordinary Afghan people. The Croatian soldier is now a brand. Their professionalism, reliability, experience, humanity are characteristics which Croatia is known for”, said Minister Krstičević, noting that Croatian soldiers will continue to contribute to the success of the mission.
After the meeting, General Šundov said that he was proud of the achievements of members of the Croatian contingent. “Our willingness and ability stands out in the main task which is carried out by this mission, and that is training, advising and providing assistance to Afghan security forces. Our soldiers are distinguished by their professional and responsible approach to the performance of the tasks which contribute to security of the country.” During the meeting with General Nicholson, we highlighted the importance of joint action of the US-Adriatic Charter initiative members in the Decisive Support mission, said Šundov.
Minister Krstičević and General Šundov met during the day with representatives of the national contingents of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia, which together with the 5th Croatian contingent are taking part in the mission as part of the US-Adriatic Charter initiative. They expressed satisfaction with excellent cooperation between the armed forces of member states in achieving the tasks of the mission, pointing out that it was precisely such operations which provide a strong contribution to increasing security, concluded the Defence Ministry in a statement.
