100 Taliban die in Afghan battles

“We have insufficient security forces to adequately provide for the security of the people of Afghanistan,” he said. Besides soldiers, there were needs “such as helicopters, such as ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance), such as logistics and transportation, civil affairs or other capabilities,” the General added.

He called on alliance countries to provide him with the necessary troops and equipment.

McKiernan said what was most needed was more Afghan soldiers and police, but until those forces were large enough and capable of ensuring security, the will of the international community to continue to send troops to fight remained paramount.

“There must be a politically-led process by the government of Afghanistan,” Gen McKiernan told reporters.

He said the Isaf would certainly support any initiative that further security of the people of Afghanistan.

Contrary to some European diplomats who stress for talks with Taliban outfit, the commander of Nato troops in Afghanistan emphasized that the militants who wish to reconcile should give up resistance and hand over their weapons.

Nevertheless, he said that Isaf leaders would not be involved in such process.

Earlier, British ambassador to Afghanistan Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles stressed for talks between Afghan government and Taliban militants to find a negotiated settlement for conflicts in Afghanistan.