UN Says Taliban Main Threat To Afghanistan

These Taliban supporters surrendered under an amnesty program earlier this month in Herat (epa) March 15, 2006 -- The United Nations envoy to Afghanistan has said a revitalized Taliban militia is the main threat to the country.

Tom Koenigs, speaking to the Security Council on March 14, cited a lack of security and the weakness of Afghanistan's government institutions, particularly in remote regions, as major problems.

He told reporters the main challenge is to prevent the Taliban from fostering an environment of insecurity.

The envoy asked the Security Council to expand the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan so it can support the Afghan government better in remote regions. The mandate of the mission is due to expire March 24.

(Reuters)