NATO Secy Gen reiterates call for Afghan ceasefire

Kabul, Dec 2 : NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has reiterated his call for Afghan ceasefire.
Stoltenberg, at the first session of the NATO’s foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday, said: “We call on Taliban to reduce violence, but of course, that’s only the first step.” “What we need to see is a lasting peace agreement. And part of that has to be a ceasefire. So, the reduction of violence should only be the first step,” the NATO chief said, adding that “The ambition is intra-Afghan peace solution. And, of course, that has to include a comprehensive ceasefire.” He said that NATO supports the Afghan peace process and, as part of that, NATO adjusted it’s presence in Afghanistan, Tolo news reported.
“While the United States has decided to further reduce its troop numbers to 2,500, NATO’s training mission continues. And over half of our forces are, now, non-US.
Ministers made clear that all Allies remain committed to the mission. And to supporting Afghan security forces in the fight against terrorism. As we continue to assess the situation in Afghanistan, it is clear that we will face a turning point early next year,” he said.