MPs back Afghanistan commitment

UK-Afghan relations have deteriorated in recent months

Thursday, 14, Feb 2008 12:01

Britain and the international community must remain committed to Afghanistan for "at least a generation", MPs say.

A report published today by the House of Commons' international development says development assistance is vital for the country in need of "major focus" from the Department for International Development (DfID).

It warns the risks of abandoning Afghanistan to the Taliban for "global security" are "significant" and says the country "must not become an aid orphan".

"We have to be realistic about what can be achieved in the short term," committee chairman Malcolm Bruce commented.

"It is vitally important that the UK and other donors stay committed to the reconstruction effort since the insurgency will not be defeated without tangible improvements in people's lives."

The political commitment follows urgent expressions of concern by the UK government and the US against a "two-tier" Nato.

US defence secretary Robert Gates warned at the weekend only some members of the alliance are prepared to send troops to help maintain security against the Taliban threat.

MPs also say they are "disappointed" by recent rifts between the Afghan and British governments.

They point to the expulsion of two diplomats accused of negotiating with the Taliban and criticisms of interference in local government in Helmand, as evidence of this development.

"We were disappointed by the tone and timing of the recent criticisms made by President Karzai of UK military operations in Helmand," the report states.

"We are concerned that such comments risk undermining the support of the British people for the UK’s long-term commitment to Afghanistan."

The report also attacks the media for negative comment of the conflict. It says there have been major achievements in political reform, economic growth and the provision of basis services which "are not getting the attention they deserve".