Interview with Samantha Hawley – ABC Radio AM – Afghanistan

Subjects: Afghanistan

TONY EASTLEY: The Federal Government has ruled out committing any more Australian troops to Afghanistan, so instead it's boosting the amount of aid going there.

To mark International Mine Action Day, the Foreign Affairs Minister Stephen Smith has announced $10 million in funding to help clear landmines in Afghanistan. Every month the mines kill dozens of Afghans.

Stephen Smith is speaking here with Samantha Hawley in Canberra.

STEPHEN SMITH: There is a terrible landmine problem in Afghanistan with many millions of mines left scattered. A lot of that dates back to the Russian invasion. It caused us terrible personal affliction to individuals and families, but there's also a significant economic drain on the country. It means that vast areas of land can't be used productively.

SAMANTHA HAWLEY: Would Australian money not be better spent sending more Australian troops into Afghanistan as other countries are now doing, including France?

STEPHEN SMITH: No, we have a substantial combat commitment. It's over 1,000 troops and we very strongly believe that there needs to be a greater international community commitment starting with NATO countries.

SAMANTHA HAWLEY: Wouldn't Kevin Rudd’s argument though for NATO countries to commit more troops, particularly in the most dangerous parts of Afghanistan, be more persuasive if Australia actually committed more troops itself?

STEPHEN SMITH: Australia is doing a lot of the heavy lifting. Our commitment is a substantial commitment, it's the largest of the non-NATO commitments and we have a very strong view. It’s shared by the United States and it’s shared by the United Kingdom that there needs to be a more broadly-based commitment from NATO countries. But there also needs to be a commitment from the international community, not just to a military or combat presence, but also to those humanitarian and capacity building aspects.

TONY EASTLEY: The Foreign Affairs Minister Stephen Smith talking to Samantha Hawley.

Ends

Media Inquiries: Foreign Minister's office (02) 6277 7500