The Hungarian PRT has been a key factor in the ISAF operations in the northern region. There is great need for the experience of the Hungarian PRT, Maj. Gen. Markus Kneip, Regional Commander North (RC North) of ISAF said during his visit to Camp Pannonia, Afghanistan.

Maj. Gen. Markus Kneip underlined that the security situation had deteriorated in Afghanistan over the past few years. During his visit he was informed about the tasks of the Hungarian troops and the causes of instability in the region. Lieut. Col. Balázs Szloszjár, Commander of PRT 10 briefed on the security situation of the province, the developments of contingent capabilities, as well as the problems to be solved. Maj.Gen. Markus Kneip said he was pleased to see the position of Civilian Representative filled. He inquired about the logistics capabilities of the PRT, the receiving of helicopters, the quality of ground handling, as well as the provincial MEDEVAC capability.

Afterwards Colonel Péter Lippai, Commander of PRT 9 briefed the guests on the results achieved, the completed and pending tasks.

At the end of his visit Maj. Gen. Markus Kneip thanked the PRT 9 for their dedicated work. He wished good luck for the Commander of PRT 10 emphasizing that the Hungarian PRT had been a key factor of the ISAF operations. Maj. Gen. Kneip also toured Camp Pannonia and the U.S. outpost of Forward Surgical Team (FST).

(Ministry of Defence)