ISAF welcomes separation of UN black list

KABUL.

The impact of that decision on the future of security in Afghanistan) spokesman Brig. Gen. Josef Blotz at a press conference. It would not effect the mission of the ISAF in fighting Al Qaeda and the Taliban, he said.

The new set of sanctions, established in two resolutions sponsored by the United States, recognises the Afghan government’s attempt to reconcile with some elements of the Taliban. Up to 18 members of Taliban would be removed from the black list, but their names have not been identified yet, western sources, said.

Civilian casualties during ISAF and Afghan military operations have been reduced by 9 percent in recent months, while casualties inflicted by militants have increased by 30 percent, Blotz said.

He said that the relationship between Afghanistan and the US would not be strained by criticisms recently exchanged between Karzai and US Ambassador Karl Eikenberry.  

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