Afghanistan: Australian commitment limited, says minister

PHOTO

An Australian soldier patrols near Tarin Kowt, in southern Afghanistan. [Defence Dept.]

Last Updated: Fri, 6 Nov 2009 07:36:00 +1100

Australian Defence Minister John Faulkner says he has made it clear to United States officials that Australian forces are unable to take a lead role in Afghanistan.

There is uncertainty about which country will assume control of the international forces in Oruzgan province once Dutch troops leave in August next year.

The majority of Australia's 15,000 troops are stationed in Oruzgan province.

Senator Faulkner says he has discussed the matter in a meeting with the US Defence Secretary Robert Gates in Washington.

"Our US friends certainly understand that Australia cannot and will not lead in Oruzgan," he said.

"As I have said before we have very significant commitments already particularly in our own region."