Why are we in Afghanistan?
We are in Afghanistan because it became a source of terrorism.
The Taliban gave safe haven to Al Qaeda, which allowed terrorists to plan and carry out terrorist attacks around the world, including the atrocities of September 11. That is why the UN authorised a NATO-led military intervention.
But getting rid of the Taliban regime and Al Qaeda was only the first part of the job. The second is to make sure they cannot return. Right now, this means direct military support, protecting the Afghan people and defeating the insurgency.
In the longer term, it means an Afghan Government, including the Army and Police, capable to take on the insurgency and violent extremism themselves. When they are, our soldiers can come home.
At the same time as our troops provide security to Afghan people, we are building up and developing the Afghan Army and Police so they can provide their own security. We are supporting the Afghan Government's efforts to reach out to those who are willing to accept the democratic process and abandon violence and terrorism.
The Army is working relentlessly with the United Nations mandate to help the Afghan Government improve governance, both nationally and locally, to:
•tackle corruption and the drugs trade;
•build up the rule of law;
•promote economic development - investing in infrastructure, agricultural alternatives to growing poppy, jobs;
•improve access to education and healthcare.
UK forces remain committed to these tasks. We are not imposing a Western model, but are working alongside the international community to support the
