In his speech at the Hague conference on Afghanistan Minister Frattini confirmed Italy’s conviction that the stabilisation of Afghanistan depends on a “regional approach” involving the greater participation of neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Iran. Indeed, Frattini pointed out that Teheran had shown signs of “wanting to make a serious commitment” to the stabilisation of Afghanistan in a bilateral meeting he had with Iranian Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Akhunzadeh. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also commented on the “promising signals from Iran”.
Frattini stated that Iran’s participation in The Hague conference “is a beginning”; the “basic willingness” is there, even though Teheran does want to participate “fully” and to be considered a “regional power”. The next step will be the late-June conference in Trieste, where Teheran will see “what Italy has to offer”, Frattini added, speaking of Iranian willingness to engage in the training of Afghan police and the campaign against terrorism and drugs, even though “Teheran remains contrary to an increase in combat troops”.
An additional 240 troops from Italy
Italy will be sending an additional 240 soldiers to Afghanistan next summer for the election period. Frattini confirmed that Italy intends to do its part for the stabilisation of Afghanistan, reiterating plans to increase the number of Carabinieri engaged in training Afghan police, and to actively participate in the country’s economic and civil reconstruction.
European police trainers
The Minister also reported that six European countries (Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Holland and Belgium)are discussing the possibility of setting up a military police training mission there in close coordination with NATO.