UN backs new NATO mission in Afghanistan

The UN Security Council has backed the establishment of a NATO mission that will remain in Afghanistan to train, assist and advise security forces after they take full security responsibility for the country.

The council unanimously adopted a text welcoming the agreement between NATO and Afghanistan to set up a non-combat Resolute Support Mission from January 1 that will reduce NATO's role to training, assistance and advisory capacity.

The council also welcomed the international community's willingness to continue supporting Afghanistan as the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force mission ends on December 31 after a 13-year military engagement.

About 12,500 foreign soldiers are set to stay in Afghanistan for the Resolute Support Mission, which will include 9800 troops from the US, 800 from Germany and the rest from other NATO allies and partners. The coalition will not lead any combat operations, but they will respond to attacks.