Safe Havens

Afghanistan can survive as a viable state, even if safe havens for the Taliban continue to exist in Pakistan, NATO Deputy Secretary General Alexander Vershbow said during a breakfast with reporters Wednesday. He said these safe havens have been a major and very serious factor in limiting progress in the overall campaign against the Taliban. Vershbow said although it may be a long time before safe havens are entirely eliminated, he hopes that the stabilization of the relationship with Pakistan, the resumption of supply line operations through the country and continued engagement between NATO commanders and Pakistani military can reduce the problem's impact.