The last 250 soldiers of nearly 2,000 total who were first deployed from the Netherlands to Afghanistan four years ago are set to leave for home on Sunday, August 1, following the Dutch government’s decision earlier this year to withdraw all troops at this time.

The military personnel, stationed in southern Afghanistan’s Uruzgan province, has become known for its peaceful and diplomatic approach, offering support for numerous development projects that have improved the lives of the Afghan citizens.

Over the past four years, the number of aid organizations has increased from six to 50, and 50,000 children now attend school across the province. Training has also been provided for Afghan soldiers to independently handle security for the region.

We join in welcoming the soldiers home as we also convey our appreciation for the peaceful contributions of all the Dutch troops in Afghanistan. Wishing them many joyful reunions with loved ones and that our wondrous planet may soon enjoy global harmony, with love and respect shared among all brethren.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/7916281/Taliban-congratulates-Netherlands-
for-pulling-soldiers-out-of-Afghanistan.html
http://www.dutchnews.nl/news/archives/2010/07/dutch_afghanistan_withdrawal_n.php
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5j6E-E2Wmju_Im3M1xqdvg2WpHUag