GHAZNI PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Soldiers with Polish Task Force White Eagle, alongside troops from the Afghan National Army, organized a shura recently after completing Operation White Eagle Fury II, in eastern Afghanistan.
"The aim of the shura was to encourage the community to support local authorities and government. Make them aware that this is the way by which they can live in accordance with their rules, religion and rights in a safe state, able to move freely, with wide access to medical care and schools," said Polish army Lt. Col. Rafal Miernik, commander of Battle Group Alpha.
Joined by Zana Khan District elders, the chief of Ghazni province police, Col. Zarawar Zahed, 1st Kandak ANA commander, Col. Wakil Warsji Abdul, and other coalition and ANSF representatives, the meeting stressed ultimately the Afghan forces will be responsible for security and stability in the region.
"Every day we work with Afghans from the army, police and civilians, who also care about the development of the country and improving its security," said Miernik.
The commander also stressed as the ANSF take over more tasks from coalition hands, they become more independent and better prepared to take responsibility for the region.
"Security depends on ourselves. We have to defend against the Taliban and work with coalition forces because they are here to help us restore peace and promote development of our country," said Zahed.
Using the Khwaja Omari District in Ghazni province as an example to imitate, the police chief said the attitude of the population, where the locals take care of themselves, the level of security there allows for economic and social development.
"The level of security and development in Khwaja Omari District is a result of active involvement of local people in the process of building security and denial of the rebels’ presence into society," he said.
Representatives of the elders stressed the unity of the Afghan community based on common religion - Islam. They spoke about the threat posed by the insurgents, and also about how the years of conflicts have devastated the country. This is time to oppose this, they said.
Because medical care is difficult to obtain in the area, Polish medics set up a make-shift clinic in a school near the Zana Khan District Center providing basic care and handing out supplies.
"We give kids candies, but also toothbrushes, detergents, soaps, creams, or even, if necessary, medications,” said Polish civilian paramedic Thomas Salak. “Some of these children certainly require further diagnosis, but here we can only give short-term assistance, such as affixing small wounds, or [supplying them] with medicines."
| Date Taken: | 07.30.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 08.08.2011 18:15 |
| Story ID: | 75060 |
| Location: | GHAZNI PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: | 48 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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