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The ADF has decided to conclude its Afghan National Army training support mission in accordance with broader changes to NATO’s strategic priorities, Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds has revealed.
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Australia has officially concluded its contribution to the Afghan National Army Officer Academy in Qargha, near Kabul.
According to Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds, the decision to conclude the ADF’s work at Qargha was made following consultation with the NATO Resolute Support mission and is in accordance with broader adjustments to the Coalition’s strategic priorities.
Australia contributes approximately 150 personnel to the NATO Resolute Support mission, and has ben supporting the Afghan security forces’ efforts to work towards sustained peace throughout the war-torn state.
Minister Reynolds lauded the efforts of ADF personnel, noting they have made a valuable contribution to the future security of Afghanistan.
“Our personnel have been vital to the establishment of national institutions such as the Afghan National Army Officer Academy in October 2013,” Minister Reynolds said.
“The work that the Australian Defence Force has done in training the thousands of officers for the Afghan National Army will have a lasting impact on the security of Afghanistan.”
Earlier this year, Australia delivered a new amenities centre to the academy.
The Australian-designed facility provides recreational relief to Afghan security forces training at Qargha during low-tempo intervals in training.
The centre’s construction began in February 2019, and was underwritten by Norway through the NATO ANA Trust Fund Organisation.
[Related: Kabul military academy receives ADF-designed facility]
