Hungarian President makes first visit to NATO headquarters
Szöveg: nato.int | 2013. január 17. 18:30NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen thanked Hungary’s President János Áder for his country’s strong support to the Alliance’s operations in Afghanistan and Kosovo, during the president’s first visit to NATO Headquarters on Thursday 17 January.
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“We are very grateful for the work that Hungarian troops are doing in Afghanistan to keep the country secure. By training the Afghan forces you are helping to shape a better future for the Afghan people," Mr. Fogh Rasmussen said. He also noted Hungary’s continued contribution to the KFOR mission.
Mr. Fogh Rasmussen said the transition of responsibility for security from ISAF to the Afghan forces is on track. “Afghan soldiers and police are taking the lead for the security of almost 90 per cent of the population. By mid-2013 they will be in the lead for the security of 100 per cent of Afghans nation-wide," he said.
The NATO-led ISAF mission in Afghanistan will end at the end of 2014. Hungary has made clear its intention to stay engaged in Afghanistan after NATO’s combat mission ends. The Secretary General welcomed that intention.
Mr. Fogh Rasmussen also commended Hungary for its commitment to NATO multinational projects. Cooperation between nations will be a key element in maintaining military capabilities in a time of austerity.
“We should all keep looking for more opportunities to cooperate. And we must hold the line on defence spending as our economies start to recover," the Secretary General said.
Hungary hosts NATO’s Strategic Airlift Capability, three C-17 heavy transport planes which are shared by 10 Allies and two partners. Hungary also participates in other multinational projects, such as pooling and sharing medical treatment facilities.
Photo: nato.int
