perseus
Active member
Shame the rest of the coalition didn't have a similar plan for nation-building. I wonder how long before it becomes an Islamic state again?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-south-asia-10829837
NATO had wanted the Netherlands to extend its mission, but the request triggered a political row which brought down the country's coalition government in February.This sent shock waves through other European countries, particularly Germany, where public opposition to the war is growing......
Analysts say the Dutch contingent has pioneered techniques which have since been held up as a model for other foreign forces in Afghanistan.
These include the "3D" policy - defence, diplomacy and development - which involved fighting the Taliban while at the same time building close contacts with local tribal elders and setting up development programmes.
"We offer the majority of the population relatively safe living conditions and advancements in health care, education and trade," Gen Van Uhm told a news conference on Wednesday.
"We have achieved tangible results of which the Netherlands can be proud."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-south-asia-10829837