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Work to end NATO restrictions on forces in Afghanistan
Some countries "contributing forces are imposing restrictions on where their troops can operate, tying the hands of
commanders on the ground. ... As president, Obama will work with European allies to end these burdensome restrictions and strengthen NATO as a fighting force. An increased U.S. commitment to the NATO mission will substantially strengthen our hand in asking for more from our European friends."
Sources: "Barack Obama: The War We Need to Win"
Subjects: Afghanistan, Foreign Policy, Military
Obama meets with NATO Secretary-General
Updated: Friday, October 9th, 2009 | By Angie Drobnic Holan
President Barack Obama met with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen at the White House to discuss Afghanistan and other matters on Sept. 29, 2009.
Obama called Afghanistan "the most important NATO mission right now" in brief public remarks after the private meeting.
"This is not a American battle; this is a NATO mission, as well," Obama said. "And we are working actively and diligently to consult with NATO at every step of the way. And I'm very grateful for the leadership that Secretary General Rasmussen has shown in committing NATO to a full partnership in this process."
Rasmussen also talked about NATO's role in Afghanistan, calling it a joint operation. "It is and it will remain a team effort," Rasmussen said. "I agree with President Obama in his approach: strategy first, then resources. The first thing is not numbers. It is to find and fine-tune the right approach to implement the strategy already laid down."
Ending restrictions on NATO forces will no doubt require careful diplomacy. The meeting with Rasmussen seemed positive enough to move this promise to In the Works.
Sources:
White House Web site, Remarks by President Obama and NATO Secretary General Rasmussen, Sept. 29, 2009
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