The NATO member countries on Tuesday renewed their commitment of staying in Afghanistan and continuing their Resolute Support mission to train, advise and assist the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) and institutions.

After the meeting of foreign ministers of NATO member countries and partners, the organization’s Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters that NATO will keep 12,000 troops, to include 7,000 from the United States, in Afghanistan through the end of 2016.

Stoltenberg said that the 12,000 troops would be stationed out of Kabul and some provinces to support the Resolute Support mission.

He added that NATO will stay in Afghanistan until there is a need and won’t allow the country become safe heavens for terrorists.

“During 2016 we will continue to keep the mission under review; and adjust it as necessary,” he said.

“Afghanistan’s security is crucially important for us. And the issue of IS {Daesh} is serious. Therefore, I am reiterating the need of NATO in Afghanistan for longer period. Additionally, Afghanistan’s security is not only important for that country but also for the region and world. We won’t allow Afghanistan become a safe heavens for terrorists,” he added.

Stoltenberg also said that Afghan forces would be financially supported till 2020.