Brussels, 12/02/2007 (EDD) - As foreseen, the European Council of Foreign Ministers approved, on Monday 12 February, the development of an ESDP mission to Afghanistan in the field of policing with linkages to the wider rule of law. On the basis of recommendations by the assessment team, which was on site at the end of 2006, and of the opinions formulated by various Council bodies, the secretariat general is currently preparing an operations concept, which should provide for the deployment of 160 police officers to Afghanistan. The European Union's contribution to stability and reconstruction in Afghanistan is greatly welcomed, especially by the United States and NATO.
Council conclusions reaffirm the EU's strong long-term commitment to Afghanistan. The Council states that the mission in that country should address issues of police reform at central, regional and provincial level, as appropriate. It should also comprise an “element to assist coordination of contributions, both equipment and rehabilitation of police infrastructure”. This comes within a coordinated European approach, the Council points out, stressing in this respect the important role to be played by EU Special Representative Francesc Vendrell, whose mandate is due to be extended this week until 29 February 2008. While underlining its appreciation for the central role of the JCMB (Joint Coordination and Monitoring Board) as the main coordination body for the international community's efforts in Afghanistan, the Council underlines the importance of strengthened coordination taking place in Kabul. (oj)