Nato extension for Afghanistan proposed

The United Nations Security Council is expected to extend the authorisation of the Nato-led force in Afghanistan ahead of a high-level meeting to focus on promoting national reconciliation in the country.

The final draft of a resolution extending the mandate for a year, which was circulated last night by France, reiterates the UN’s concern about “the increased violent and terrorist activities by the Taliban, al Qaida, illegally armed groups and those involved in the narcotics trade”.