As a troop contributor to Afghanistan since 2001, Turkey has assumed command of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) twice, in 2002 and 2005. Turkey has also led the Kabul Regional Command (RCC) for 8 months in 2007. 

Furthermore, on 1 November 2009, Turkey once more assumed responsibility for the RCC.  Upon the request of NATO to extend this term for one more year, it was decided to prolong our term in command of the RCC until 1 November 2011. 

As a result of the Turkish Armed Forces’ outstanding success and the close ties it forged with the Afghan people, we have been asked by NATO authorities continue the leadership of RCC for another year. 

Taking into account Afghanistan’s special place for Turkey and the central role played by the RCC in establishing security and stability in Afghanistan, Turkey has decided that the Turkish Armed Forces will continue its leadership of RCC for one more year, until 1 November 2012.

This decision constitutes yet another important example of the contributions made by Turkey,  first and foremost in the training of Afghan security forces, to create conditions conducive to sustainable security and stability  in this friendly and brotherly country.