UN Security Council extends mandate of NATO-led force in Afghanistan

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1707 on Tuesday, extending the mandate of a NATO-led security force in Afghanistan for another 12 months.

The current mandate of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan expires on Oct. 13.

The resolution expressed concern about the security situation in Afghanistan, "in particular the increased violent and terrorist activity by the Taliban, Al-Qaida, illegally armed groups and those involved in the narcotics trade, which has resulted in increased Afghan civilian casualties."

It called on all Afghan parties and groups to engage constructively in the peaceful political development of the country and to avoid resorting to violence including through the use of illegal armed groups.

Council members also called on member states to contribute greater personnel, equipment and funding so that the force can be more effective.

The text authorizes the member states participating in ISAF to take all necessary measures to fulfill its mandate.

The UN-mandated ISAF is operated under the auspices of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Source: Xinhua