OREANDA-NEWS. October 12, 2009. The UN Security Council on October 8 unanimously approved resolution 1890 extending the mandate of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan by one year, until October 13, 2010.

As a result of intense, but constructive discussions, the UN Security Council members succeeded in agreeing on a consensus text, which reiterates the consolidated striving of the international community to take further steps on behalf of stabilization in Afghanistan and the creation of a strong democratic society and effective institutions of power in the country. An important component of these efforts is building up the fight against the terrorist and narcotic threats emanating from the Taliban and al-Qaida.

While acknowledging the measures taken by the foreign military presences to ensure peace and security in Afghanistan, the resolution focuses on the need for increasing their responsibility in protecting civilians and observing the norms of international humanitarian law.

It is important that the document sets forth the principles of the supremacy of the Government of Afghanistan, and the strict observance of the country’s Constitution and the sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council on the Taliban and al-Qaida, in carrying out national reconciliation programs.

On the proposal of Russia, the resolution also has a provision on the special role of regional organizations in normalizing the situation in and around Afghanistan.

We presume that the extension of the International Security Assistance Force will facilitate the Afghan settlement process and the promotion of regional security and stability.