“You represent Italy with dignity, pride and professionalism. You are working at a delicate and crucial period for Afghanistan, both in terms of the resumption of activity by the insurgents and the highly sensitive nature of the transition”. These were the sentiments expressed by the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs, De Mistura, speaking to Italian soldiers in Herat during his visit to Afghanistan. De Mistura conveyed messages from the Heads of State and Government to the Italian contingent on his arrival from Kabul, where he had attended the “Heart of Asia” Conference on 14 June 2012.
Recognition and gratitude for the work of the Italian military
On his arrival at Camp Arena, where the contingent’s command is based, the Under-Secretary was received by the commander of Regional Command West, General Luigi Chiapperini. During his briefing the General illustrated the operations currently under way, especially those regarding the transition process.
“The transition will lead to an assumption of full control of operations by the Afghan army and security forces”, the General assured De Mistura, “and will allow normal security conditions to be guaranteed”. The Under-Secretary then met the soldiers and assured them of the great appreciation and gratitude in which their work is held.
