Germany to extend Afghanistan mission

BERLIN - Germany has decided to extend its military mission in Afghanistan for another year. The current mandate will expire Dec 13.

Germany has deployed over 4,000 soldiers in Afghanistan, third largest foreign troops contingent after the US and Britain, in the central Asian country.

Germany wants to tell its partners that it is a reliable partner for peace and security in the world, German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle said while announcing the decision Wednesday, Xinhua reported.

However, it has to be approved by the German parliament before the current mandate expires in December. At least 30 German soldiers were killed in the war against the Taliban in Afghanistan.