Spain low their flag in Afghanistan

USPA NEWS - Spanish troops have been lowering their flag in Afghanistan, after 14 years of uninterrupted military presence as part of international contingents deployed in the Asian country. More than one hundred Spanish soldiers have left their lives in Afghanistan.

The ceremonial lowering of the flag at the Afghan base in Herat was chaired by the Spanish Deputy Prime Minister, Soraya Saenz de Santamaria, who claimed the "many efforts" that the Spanish troops have done during his fourteen years in a "war" like Afghanistan, "leaving even their lives for a better country." Following this withdrawal, Afghanistan will only be 25 Spanish soldiers serving in the NATO headquarters in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan.

During the 14 years of Spanish presence in Afghanistan, 102 Spanish soldiers have been killed in attacks or accidents related to the mission. "We can´t forget that we came to a war that has required a huge effort and sacrifice of the military to its last consequences," said Spanish Deputy Prime Minister in his speech at the farewell ceremony in Herat. The deployment of troops Spain has cost 3.682 million Euros, according to the Ministry of Defense.

Herat base and containing the hospital have been transferred to the Afghan army, as part of the agreements on the withdrawal of Spanish troops. Spain has provided health care to the international military contingent, but also to the Afghan civilian population. Spanish soldiers have also trained Afghan army personnel in the fight against the Taliban and terrorism of Al-Qaeda. From now on, the 25 Spanish soldiers who remain in Afghanistan built between NATO personnel will provide tactical support to international troops.