Cetin: Terrorism requires a global fight

In an interview with the A.A, Cetin said on Friday, "there have been historical relations between Turkey and Afghanistan since 1920s. Peace and stability in Afghanistan is of great importance in regard to Turkey’s interests. Also, Afghanistan constitutes a gate opening to Central Asia. I believe that Turkey’s being impartial against various groups in Afghanistan would make an important contribution to my new mission."

Reminding that Turkey had also contributed to NATO’s mission in Afghanistan under the support of the allied countries, Cetin said, "this contribution can include equipment or maybe soldiers."

Upon a question about Turkey’s view of not sending more soldiers to Afghanistan, Cetin said, "Turkey should not forget that it has been a member of NATO, one of the most important western institutions, for 50 years. Also, it should not be forgotten that a global threat like terrorism requires a global fight. Turkey is one of the countries well-understanding it since it has suffered much from terrorism."

"As you know, the issue of Iraq has been high on agenda of the world for a long time. However, the world should not forget Afghanistan," he noted.

Recalling that there were two separate forces in Afghanistan for the time being, one led by NATO and the other headed by the United States, Cetin said, "there are some problems stemming from these two separate commands. Therefore, both NATO and the United States are planning to unite these forces under a single command. A decision is expected to be taken till NATO Summit in Istanbul next year."

Upon a question about NATO Secretary General George Robertson that NATO should achieve success in Afghanistan like it had done in the Balkans, Cetin said, "despite everything, the Balkans take place in Europe. Afghanistan has been experiencing civil and external wars for the last 23 years. The world has pledged to provide Afghanistan with a certain amount of financial support. But this amount is not sufficient. Military success cannot be enough without necessary economic support."