SC approves extension of NATO forces in Afghanistan

The UN Security Council is extending the mandate of the NATO-led military force in Afghanistan for one year. The thirteen member council voted unanimously to extend NATO's 65,000-strong International Security Assistance Force, underlining the importance of protecting civilians and this extension will be made from 13th October 2009. The resolution stresses the importance of training and improving the capabilities of Afghanistan's security forces so they become self-sufficient and can protect the country.