34 Slovak soldiers to leave for Resolute Support Operation

The Training Battalion in Martin (Žilina region) on Thursday saw a farewell ceremony for 34 members of the Slovak Armed Forces who are due to leave for the Resolute Support operation in Afghanistan, TASR learnt on the same day. According to Defence Ministry State Secretary Róbert Ondrejcsák, Slovakia's presence in the Resolute Support operation is the country's contribution to so-called collective security. "In addition to the military and security dimensions, our presence in Afghanistan also has a diplomatic dimension. Wherever I go abroad or meet representatives of our allies, I only hear words of praise for the work and service of Slovak servicemen," said Ondrejcsák. Chief of General Staff of the Slovak Armed Forces Milan Maxim stated that the 34 soldiers will serve in the operation for six months and will belong to advisory and training teams of the Afghan Special Forces and the medical assistance team. They will also be stationed at Resolute Support headquarters.