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CNN Live Event/Special

British Prime Minister Speaks About Possible Peacekeeping Mission in Afghanistan

Aired December 17, 2001 - 10:39   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Just watching what's happening in London at the House of Commons. The British Prime Minister Tony Blair now talking about the future for Afghanistan and a peacekeeping force that would be led by the Brits on the ground. This comment just a few short moments ago.

Here's Tony Blair.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

TONY BLAIR, BRITISH PRIME MINISTER: Britain is willing in principle to lead such a force. It is likely to comprise troops from various countries, European and others.

Friday's meeting of potential troop-contributing nations was attended by a number of E.U. countries, as well as Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, the Czech Republic, Jordan, Malaysia, Turkey and the U.S. The British contingent is likely to be up to 1,000- 1,500, though I stress that this is not yet decided. We expect the resolution to be passed by the U.N. Security Council later this week. The United States given its full help and support for the security force, and we would hope to have lead elements in place shortly.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

HEMMER: Tony Blair a few moments ago in London. And, again, once the Taliban and Al Qaeda forces completely taken care of by the U.S.-led forces there and the Eastern Alliance, as well as other aspects of the opposition force in different parts of Afghanistan, that mission that Tony Blair is speaking about, will be able to take root about 100 percent. The British a couple of weeks ago saying that they would lead that peacekeeping missions. We'll monitor that as well.

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