KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Afghan national security forces, supported by Task Force La Fayette, conducted Operation Gorgon, focusing on security and development in Afghanya valley in Kapisa province, Afghanistan, Feb. 2 - 3.
A shura was held with more than 150 village representatives and local authorities from Afghanya, Pachakhan and Ghayn valleys.
"I admire what you do; you have taken your responsibilities to help the population in Afghanya valley...Our mission is to help Afghan population. It's necessary to work together in order to help improve the district development," said French Col. Vincent Pons, commander of TF Black Rock, TF La Fayette
Mohamad Safi, the Nijrab deputy governor, supported Pons statement.
"In Nijrab, I am engaged with the provincial reconstruction team and the French [Civil-Military Information Center) team with development projects, which respond to the population needs," Safi sa]d.
Safi also said that the collaboration with the ANSF and coalition forces is an opportunity to succeed and that the residents of the valley need to make sure the area is secured so there can be success in the valley.
Afghan national army Lt. Col. Khalili, the 3rd Kandak, 3rd Brigade, 201st Corps chief, who also attended the shura, reminded the attendees that all Afghan security forces soldiers are all sons of the Afghan people, and that the ANA and Afghan national police are serving the population and are here to ensure security.
"The French and Americans have come from far to help us. It's necessary [for us to have a hand in building] our future. We are able and we have to work together and I am sure we can achieve big things."
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Thomas Goulter, the Kapisa PRT chief, responded to his afghan counterpart and commented on the current situation.
"ANSF, American and French soldiers work together in order to ensure security, development and governance in Kapisa province. We are trying to improve your living conditions, but it's first of all your country and it's you who have to [give a] hand, and we are here to help you."