Mr. Tanner welcomed the recent announcements of other NATO members that they will commit additional forces to the mission and went on to say that, “President Obama’s announcement sent a strong message to the meeting of NATO member Foreign Ministers in Brussels today, and I am  extremely pleased that 25 countries have agreed to commit at least 7,000 additional troops. NATO is an Alliance of sovereign states, but the United States plays a leading role.  By renewing its national commitment to Afghanistan, the US is setting an example that encourages others to increase their commitment as well.”

Mr. Tanner concluded by stressing the need for Alliance solidarity.  “At the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Annual Session in Edinburgh a few weeks ago, I underlined the need to rebuild our sense of common purpose across this Alliance.  What we are seeing today is a sign that we are doing just that.”