More Australian troops to Afghanistan

AUSTRALIA: Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on Tuesday revealed that Australia will boost its war effort in Afghanistan by sending more police and civilian aid, following a meeting with US President Barack Obama at the White House

Rudd said the US President had accepted that Australia's commitment of 1,550 soldiers in Afghanistan was adequate, following the 40 percent increase in troop levels approved in April.

He confirmed that the government will increase the number of police trainers and civilian personnel, to help with efforts in handing back control to local Afghanistan authorities from allied forces. The decision by Rudd to increase Australia's presence with non-military assistance could be an attempt to stave off a likely request for more troops.

Obama will announce an expected increase of 32,000 to 35,000 U. S. troops.

The significant military build-up comes after a review of military operations by U.S. and Allied commander General Stanley McChrystal which showed the Taliban has gained the upper hand in the eight-year conflict over the past 12 months.

Xinhua