"Spain is committed to the future of Afghanistan", says Pedro Morenés

In his speech, the Spanish Minister for Defence said that "you are sister nation because Spanish blood has been spilt for freedom, peace, justice and a future in your country".

Furthermore, he urged them to maintain and strengthen their overseas relations and ensured that Spain will continue to support them in achieving the future goals that the Afghan people so greatly deserve.

After reaffirming his respect and admiration for their nation, and expressing his wish for what they have learned on this course to help them consolidate the future of their country, the Minister for Defence officially brought the course to a close.

Consolidating peace and security

The 10th Higher Defence Studies Course for Afghan Superior Officers gathered 20 officers from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Security Department, as well as two officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Madrid.

Over four weeks, students received training on democratic principles and respect for human rights in order to help build and consolidate a community of peace and security in Central Asia.

Furthermore, the incorporation of five Spanish officers on the course enabled mutual knowledge to be fostered, experiences to be shared and institutional ties and integration between Afghanistan and Spain to be consolidated.

The programme included visits to armed forces units and companies operating in the defence industry.