Afghan defense officials on Wednesday announced that Afghan national security forces will take full security lead across the country after the implementation of fifth and final phase of security transition from NATO troops this month.
Deputy spokesman for the Afghan defense ministry Dr. Najib Danish said Afghan security forces are now capable of taking the security responsibilities and maintain stability for the Afghan people.
The announcement comes amid growing violence across the country, where militants are simultaneously carrying out attacks in major cities including capital Kabul.
However defense ministry spokesman Gen. Zahir Azimi said apparently Afghan national security forces are facing resistance from the militants. But he said that increased attacks by militants and security transition are two separate issues.
Gen. Azimi said that Afghan security forces have the capabilities to eliminate any threats from the militants.
NATO is preparing to end its combat mission in Afghanistan by the end of 2014, and NATO will change its role from combat to training, advise and support of the Afghan security forces.
The withdrawal of NATO combat troops from Afghanistan comes in line with the presidential election which will be organized few months earlier before NATO ends it combat mission.
