Extension of NZDF commitment in Afghanistan
The New Zealand Defence Force’s commitment of mentors and support staff to the Afghan National Army Officer Academy in
Afghanistan has been extended out to December 2016, Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee says.
“Since late 2013 New Zealand has contributed five mentors and three support staff to the academy to assist in building
the capacity of the Afghan National Army.
“The academy, led by the United Kingdom and situated just outside of Kabul, forms part of NATO’s non-combat Resolute
Support Mission in Afghanistan to train, advise and assist the Afghan security forces and institutions out to the end of
2016.
“Positive results have been achieved in the development of junior Afghan officers, and it is appropriate that New
Zealand’s contribution to this important activity be maintained for a stable and secure Afghanistan.
“New Zealand’s presence in Afghanistan – spanning both its 13-year-long participation in NATO’s International Security
Assistance Force and now its non-combat successor mission, Resolute Support – has demonstrated New Zealand’s commitment
to international security and stability.
“International efforts in Afghanistan have evolved and now focus on supporting the Afghan state and its security forces
as they move towards self-reliance. Over this time New Zealand has remained determined to play its part alongside its
international partners.
“The extension of New Zealand’s commitment to the Officer Academy is complemented by ongoing funding and development
assistance,” Mr Brownlee says.
ends