BRUSSELS, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- NATO's Military Committee said Thursday that peace in Afghanistan cannot be achieved with only a military solution.
Chiefs of Defense of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization met at NATO Headquarters in Brussels for their annual fall meeting Thursday. At the top of the agenda were discussions on the International Security Assistance Force's operation in Afghanistan. After the meetings were held, NATO's Military Committee called on the international community to increase economic and social development support in Afghanistan, NATO reported.
Adm. Giampaolo Di Paola, chairman of the Military Committee, said long-term peace and security in Afghanistan will not come from military operations alone. Di Paola said only an inclusive comprehensive approach with regional partners would establish a successful outcome.
"In the context of a regional approach to Afghanistan, Pakistan is a key player," Di Paola said in a statement. "A stable and peaceful Afghanistan is in the vital interest of Pakistan."
Discussions also were held on operations in Kosovo and the NATO counterpiracy maritime operation in the Gulf of Aden.
