On Friday, 13 March, the New York Times published an opinion submitted by journalists who recently attended a media tour of Afghanistan. The Op Ed highlighted the importance of the international effort in Afghanistan and described the situation from their point of view with opinion and analysis. The article made both supporting and critical observations about the current operation. The free exchange of ideas is essential in our democratic societies, and we wholeheartedly welcome opinions – both positive and negative ones. We do however take issue with one particular point presented as fact.

The authors state that “NATO’s forces can’t do antidrug missions, but they can provide assistance like air support and medevac units to American military advisers embedded with Afghan Army units involved with poppy eradication.” The author concludes that “NATO plays a key role in individual antidrug operations, but there is no way to integrate its forces into broader counternarcotics efforts.” This is simply not true. more…

Opium poppies

The Afghan Government recently reported its special police force destroyed 9 heroin labs and a significant supply of narcotics. We at ACO have long contended that confronting the narcotics trade that fuels the insurgency, buying weapons and paying fighters, is essential in the effort to provide a safe and secure environment.  Even more critical to long-term success in Afghanistan is that the Government, through the Afghan National Security Forces, develop the capacity to autonomously provide for its own security.

This week’s events are shining testament to progress in both of these critical areas – the development of the ANSF as well as the need for an aggressive counternarcotics effort. Success in Afghanistan is indeed achievable. It requires an enduring commitment by the international community, and NATO stands determined to do its part.