Minister Terzi met General John R. Allen, commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, at the Foreign Ministry in Rome today, 1 February 2012.
General Allen up-dated Minister Terzi on developments on the ground in Afghanistan. His focus was the progress being made in the transition process, not least in view of the forthcoming NATO Summit in Chicago, which will also discuss the strategic partnership on Afghanistan.
General Allen was at pains to thank Minister Terzi for the vital role played by Italy in the various sectors of the international presence in Afghanistan. He expressed great admiration for the Italian military personnel’s exemplary manner of conducting operations within ISAF, especially during this sensitive transition period.
At the political level, Minister Terzi and General Allen reiterated the importance of the positive outcomes achieved and agreements signed by the Afghan President, Karzai, during his visit to Italy and other European capitals.
Rome and Washington are “fully in tune” on the next steps to be taken in the transition process and the consolidation of Kabul’s institutions, said Terzi. He reiterated Italy’s commitment in the civil assistance field also, most notably in training, to provide support during a “crucial transition for the future of the entire region”.
