NATO to launch non-combat mission in Afghanistan

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg Monday said the international military alliance would launch a non-combat mission in Afghanistan in January next year.

Stoltenberg said the mission named "Resolute Support" aimed to train, advise and assist Afghan security forces, Xinhua reported.

"It reflects the progress we have made together with great sacrifice. And it will enable Afghanistan to build on that progress," Stoltenberg said.

The NATO agreed in Wales to open a new chapter in its partnership with Afghanistan, as its combat mission in the country comes to a close by the year end.

"But the new mission is only one aspect of our support. We will also provide funding for the Afghan national security forces. And develop our long-term partnership with Afghanistan," Stoltenberg added.

Stoltenberg will meet Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah Tuesday in this regard.