Afghanistan needs long-term international support

On a visit to New Zealand, Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Abdullah Abdullah told the country's National Radio international support will "consolidate the achievements of the past three and a half years."

While the security situation had improved in most parts of the country, violence continues in border areas, he said. Abdullah also said that the overall picture is one of security and further stabilization of the country.

Visiting New Zealand to thank it for its contribution to stability and reconstruction so far, Abdullah said it would be a long-haul effort before stability and security were assured.

Australia and Afghanistan are looking at signing an agreement to fight terrorism that will enable both parties to share information on terrorist networks in the region and Abdullah said he expected to discuss a similar agreement with New Zealand counterpart Phil Goff later Monday, AP reports.