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Turkey will command peacekeepers in Afghanistan

Special to World Tribune.com
MIDDLE EAST NEWSLINE
Tuesday, April 2, 2002

ANKARA Ñ Turkey has decided to take responsibility for the international peacekeeping force in Afghanistan.

Turkey relayed its decision to Britain and the United States that Ankara will assume the command of the International Security and Assistance Force. Turkish officials said the agreement was in principle and required guarantees from the United States on funding costs.

The Turkish National Security Council announced Ankara's decision on Friday after a meeting of the panel.

The Cabinet of Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit is expected to ratify the decision.

Officials said Turkey continues to differ with Washington over the cost of the peacekeeping mission. The United States has agreed to provide Ankara with $20 million to assume responsibility for peacekeeping duties. Turkey has asked for at least $50 million.

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