President Karzai met with Vicdi Gonul, Turkish Defense Minister on August 6, 2006 in the Gulkhana Palace, Kabul.

The two sides discussed issues concerning security, fight against terrorism and the overall situation in the region.

Speaking about Turkish troops in the NATO framework of ISAF, Minister Gonul appreciated Afghan government’s counterterrorism efforts and added: “based on the military, cultural and historical ties between the two countries, Turkey will continue to help Afghanistan in ensuring peace and economic development and remains committed to helping Afghans in the fight against terrorism, ensuring stability and a better future for Afghanistan.

The President thanked Minister Gonul for his country’s continued assistance in security and reconstruction of Afghanistan and stressed on further cooperation for strengthening Afghanistan state institutions in particular equipping National Army and Police.