Nato envoy hold more talks on Afghanistan troop shortfall
15/09/2006 - 09:39:40Ambassadors from 26 Nato allies are holding more talks in Brussels, Belgium, today on the shortfall of more than 2,000 troops which alliance generals are struggling to muster for the battle with Taliban insurgents in southern Afghanistan.
However officials at alliance headquarters said no breakthrough was expected ahead of a meeting of Nato foreign ministers next week in New York.
About 8,000 Nato troops who began moving into southern Afghanistan in July have faced fierce resistance from Taliban fighters prompting the alliance’s top commander Gen. James Jones to appeal for up to 2,500 extra troops and more planes and helicopters.
However, allies stretched by other international missions and worried by the risk of high casualties have been reluctant to commit their forces.
