ANKARA - Turkey, who took over command of International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan from Britain, plans to hand over the command in December.
Diplomatic sources recalled that Turkey committed to command the force for a six months period, and underlined that Turkey wanted to hand over the command on December 20.
It was reported that in case there is not any country that will take over command of ISAF during this period, Ankara will evaluate the situation.
Turkey's reluctance not to extend the period of the mandate is because of coming winter conditions, its financial burden, and possibility of an operation on Iraq.
Number of 1400 soldiers, assigned in the region, is planned to be reduced to 200 after transfer of the command. In case the mandate is extended, there will not be any reduction in number of soldiers. It was reported that new problems could appear with respect to security and finance in this respect.
Yet sources recalled that Britain, who undertook the first term command, had extended it for two months.
Germany and the Netherlands, a while ago informed Ankara and the other participant countries that they may undertake 3rd term command of ISAF on condition that a political decision is taken.
Diplomatic sources pointed out that uncertainty continues in this respect, and that Germany and the Netherlands gave the impression of postponing the process, and stated that they could take over the command in February or March the earliest.
Within this framework, Ankara wants contacts to start soon with Germany and the Netherlands in military level, and expects political decisions to be taken soon.