Georgia Offers Civilians for Afghanistan Campaign

The recent casualty cost for Georgia's military engagement in Afghanistan apparently has not chilled the country's ardor to participate in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s war against the Taliban. Nearly a week after four Georgian soldiers died in Afghanistan, Tbilisi has offered to contribute civilian manpower to shore up the US-led campaign. Georgian doctors and support personnel are expected to leave for Afghanistan next year, the foreign ministry said.

 “Georgia remains loyal to its commitment and does not plan to withdraw its contingent. On the contrary, we fully realize our responsibility and, unfortunately, despite the casualties we are ready to take on a more active role in the peace mission,” Deputy Foreign Minister Nino Kalandadze told an October 11 news conference.


Georgian Foreign Minister Grigol Vashadze told RFE/RL that Georgia is now looking to help develop schools and hospitals in the war-torn country. Tbilisi hopes that its contribution will help push NATO doors open for Georgia. Various of NATO’s European members are perceived to be blocking Georgian membership for fear of antagonizing Russia.