NATO welcomes upcoming elections in Afghanistan

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen Wednesday welcomed the announcement by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission yesterday that the country's next presidential election will be held on 5 April 2014. "I welcome the announcement of the date for the 2014 presidential and provincial elections as well as the commitments expressed by Afghan authorities to inclusive, transparent and credible elections," he said in a statement. "The elections present an historic opportunity for Afghanistan. Allies and ISAF partners look forward to a democratic process, in accordance with the constitution, which will contribute to stability, security and prosperity," added the NATO chief. NATO is to end its combat mission in Afghanistan by the end of 2014.