Afghanistan, NATO-EU relations, Libya and Russia, as well as the future challenges of NATO enlargement. These were the questions of the table for Foreign Minister Emma Bonino\u2019s discussion with NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, at the Farnesina today, 25 July. <\/P>
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Minister Bonino began by reiterating Italy\u2019s commitment, post-2014, to support Afghanistan\u2019s security in a cohesive framework with the Allies, while working to promote the extensive involvement of NATO member countries and partners. She stressed the need for the international community to focus its efforts not just on security but on improving the country\u2019s civil and economic conditions. At the same time, she added, the Afghans will need to respect their commitments in terms of democratic reforms, governance, inclusion and the protection of human rights. Indeed, concluded Minister Bonino, the presidential elections in 2014 will be an important test for the Afghan authorities. <\/P>
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The Foreign Minister also underscored the importance for the EU and NATO to develop and deepen their collaboration, both on the political level and by promoting synergies and shared projects. One aim is to optimise defence and security spending: a need that is all the more pressing in light of member states\u2019 ever-tighter budgetary constraints. <\/P>
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