UK hopes for political settlement in Afghanistan

KABUL (Pajhwok): If international terrorism returns to Afghanistan, the UK and its NATO partners reserve the right to launch fresh military action says the British defence minister.

James Heappey, according to a British newspaper, hoped for a successful political outcome in Afghanistan after almost two decades of conflict.

He suggested new military action was possible if “ungoverned spaces” in Afghanistan returned, posing a threat to the UK homeland or the interests of its allies.

Optimistic of a successful political settlement in the war-torn country, the minster also hinted at exercising the option of providing air support to the Afghan security forces.

The Evening Standard quoted him as telling MPs it was “almost certain” that Taliban would be included in the Afghan government as part of a durable political settlement.

In response to concerns raised by MPs, Heappey said: “It is very likely, indeed almost certain, that a lasting peace settlement within Afghanistan will involve the Taliban as part of the Afghan government.”

PAN Monitor/mud