Georgian forces commended for Afghan mission

The Minister of Defense of Georgia, Bacho Akhalaia, received a letter of gratitude from David H. Petraeus, General, United States Army Commander, International Security Assistance Force / United States Forces-Afghanistan, on March 30, where the American General thanked the Georgian armed forces for their successful participation in the ISAF mission.

“I greatly appreciate your nation’s contributions to the NATO ISAF mission. The 31st (April-November 2010) and 32nd (November 2010-present) Georgian Battalions have been integral to the growing success of our efforts to improve security and stability, specifically in Nimruz and Helmand Provinces,” Patraeus stated. As he has mentioned, Georgian forces have been very successful in partnering the Afghan National Security Force and local Afghan Government leaders. Together they have conducted numerous operations and implemented many initiatives to increase security and stability. At the same time, according to him, “Your troopers’ effective interactions with the Afghan people have led to increased confidence in both ISAF and GIRoA security forces. As an example, the area where they operate in southern Musa Qaleh is now patrolled on foot, resulting in better relationships with the Afghan people. Your troopers are truly courageous in conducting these foot patrols, which place them at greater risk of insurgent attacks.”

He has also stated that Major General Richard Mills, Commander of Regional Command-Southwest, has been very pleased with the leadership of both the 31st and 32nd Battalions, “He informed me that your troopers are motivated and disciplined, and that they approach their mission with a positive attitude. Other favorable comments about your troops have been echoed up and down the levels of command, reinforcing their well-earned reputation of being tough, smart, and professional. Thanks again for your nation’s commitment to the Afghan people and the campaign here. I look forward to continuing our work together to help the Afghanistan Government provide a more secure and prosperous future for its people.”

As it became known on March 30 The United States is widening the area of its activities in the Black Sea Region - The commander of U.S. European Command, Admiral James Stavridis announced in his testimony in Congress. The Admiral said that in 2011, the operative and tactic groups of the Navy have drafted a military training plan, in which 14 countries of the Black Sea region were involved. The enhancement of the area aims at training the partner states for the Afghanistan peace mission.

Stavridis said the US marine forces have already conducted first mission of drones in the Black Sea, however, he did not specify the date of the operation.

When questioned by Senator John McCain about military cooperation with Georgia, the Admiral answered that American instructors continued to train Georgian soldiers, but denied that the US was supplying Georgia with weapons.

While Georgian authorities are proud as Georgia is taking part for preserving and protecting the world security, elements of the Georgian opposition are categorically against sending Georgian soldiers to Afghanistan. Others consider that participation in the mission is important, however the Georgian authorities must acknowledge the dangers, “Georgia is country which has one of the largest presences in Afghanistan and in the most difficult region of the country. If we do not withdraw Georgian troops from there, we will at least fight for their number to be reduced to 100, “Nestan Kirtadze, representative of Labour Party, told The Messenger. According to member of New Rights, Manana Nachkebia, ““We have always said that Georgia should be a member of NATO, as it is very important for the country's security. If we want to be a member of the Alliance we should participate in peacekeeping operations such as in Afghanistan. This is the contribution Georgia must make to achieve its goal of membership of the organisation. However the authorities should obtain information of the situation and possible threats beforehand, which will reduce our losses, “Nachkebia told The Messenger.

Military analyst, Irakli Sesiashvili considers that the American decision not to provide Georgia with weapons is right, “this would complicate relations between US and Russia and will give a reason to Russians to increase it military presence in the region. Currently, when there is no dialogue between Georgia and Russia, getting arms from US is risky,” the analyst stated and mentioned that, “ the United states conduct long term projects, like training Georgian soldiers , as for the provision of armaments, this may happen in future when the political situation is more stable.”