KABUL (A.A) - 20.06.2002 - Turkey took over command of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Britain on Thursday.
President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan; United Nations Special Envoy Lakhdar Brahimi; State Minister Sukru Sina Gurel; Land Forces Command Staff Chief General Sener Eruygur; General Hilmi Akin Zorlu, the commander of Turkish troops; and a number of guests were in attendance at the ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, General John Mccoll said that everyone had cooperated during the term in office of the temporary government, and the rebuilding process had begun.
Noting that carrying out command of the ISAF was an honor for Britain, General Mccoll thanked President Karzai and Brahimi for their assistance.
Meanwhile, General Hilmi Akin Zorlu said that Turkey had willingly agreed to take over leadership of the ISAF with its 1,400 personnel with the aim of contributing to the peace and security that the Afghan people have long deserved.
He noted that Turkey would also undertake responsibility of the Kabul Airport.
General Zorlu said, ''besides its serious experiences in multi-national peace-keeping operations, Turkish forces expect cooperation of the other nations.''
''The most evident sign of improving conditions is that Afghan people have begun to walk around safely, that the Loya Jirga grand assembly convened successfully, and that Afghan people revealed their determination to shape their future,'' he said.
He added, ''we will try to do our utmost for the peace and security of Afghan people during our command. I will dedicate myself to my responsibility. I want to thank all countries supporting Turkey.''