There are, no doubt, growing concerns among different circles in Afghanistan about what will happen to this country after 2014. At the same time, all in Afghanistan view Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) as future pillars of security at a time when the NATO troops are planned to continue handing over security tasks to ANSF and withdraw from the country by the end of 2014.
Inspired, committed, devoted and patriot Afghan soldiers put every effort to secure lives of the people of Afghanistan. They need to be supported by people, our government and the international community to continue moving towards professionalism. Military-wise, Afghanistan must be self-sufficient to attain long-terms peace and stability.
In the post-Taliban Afghanistan, the Afghan National Army (ANA) has appeared as the most creditable institution, followed by Afghan National Police (ANP). Being a soldier or police in a country like Afghanistan where death follows you like your shadow, is not any easy job.
The ANSF is a source of great hope for the people of Afghanistan in regards of securing their lives. Over the last ten years, the Afghan soldiers have given every sacrifice required to perform their responsibilities towards saving the life of people against the brutality and violence practiced by the enemies of peace, prosperity and democracy in Afghanistan – the Taliban and other groups of insurgents.
Despite the severe hindrances lying ahead of ANSF, it is moving towards becoming a competent and professional force. That is indeed a time requirement of Afghanistan.
The biggest hindrance, as identified by various military and non-military authorities including President Hamid Karzai, is lack of sufficient modern weapons, aircrafts and other war equipments. ANSF needs to be adequately equipped to keep terrorists at bay after the withdrawal of international troops.
Another fundamental requirement of ANSF is the training programs aimed at moving it towards professionalism and boosting its capacity. Training programs are so pivotal that the NATO has committed to continue them for a long run after its troops withdrawal from Afghanistan.
On October 26, in his Eid ul Fitr message President Karzai assured Afghans of long term stability in Afghanistan after 2014. Long term stability can only come to this country, if our security forces are consistently supported to nurture. There is no doubt ANSF will be able to stand against the enemies of Afghanistan provided they are sufficiently equipped, trained and kept away from politics.