Germany plans to increase Afghan troop contingent by 500, focus on training

Germany to increase Afghan contingent by 500

BERLIN — Chancellor Angela Merkel says Germany plans to increase its troop contingent in Afghanistan by 500 as it moves to step up training of local security forces.

Merkel gave the figure Tuesday after meeting with ministers to thrash out Germany’s position for this week’s London conference on the future of Afghanistan.

Germany currently has nearly 4,300 soldiers in northern Afghanistan. They serve under a parliamentary mandate that sets the maximum number at 4,500.

Merkel said that Germany would step up the number of soldiers involved in training Afghan forces.

She said Berlin is not setting a withdrawal date for its troops.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

BERLIN (AP) — Germany’s development minister has indicated that Berlin will increase its troop numbers in Afghanistan while focusing more heavily on training local security forces.

Dirk Niebel told ZDF television Tuesday that “there will of course be an adjustment of the troop strength.” He wouldn’t confirm or deny speculation that Germany will send about 500 more troops.

Chancellor Angela Merkel met with Niebel and other ministers Monday night to thrash out Germany’s position for this week’s London conference on the future of Afghanistan.

Germany has nearly 4,300 soldiers in northern Afghanistan. They serve under a parliamentary mandate that currently sets the maximum number at 4,500.

Niebel said Germany plans to shift its focus further toward training Afghan forces.