Feature: Joining China's V-Day parade boosts image of Afghan Army

The Afghan army delegation that joined a military parade in China last week said their appearance at the grand ceremony has brought prestige to Afghanistan and presented a refreshing image of Afghan army in the world.

Major General Abdul Manan Farahi, head of Afghan army delegation, told Xinhua that it was an honor for the Afghan flag squad to participate in the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against the Japanese Aggression, as well as the 70th anniversary of victory in the World Anti- Fascist War.

"The Chinese people and army had made unforgettable contribution during the world Anti-Fascist war 70 years ago. The celebration in Beijing was remarkably successful," the general said.

Three senior members form the guard of honor of Afghan Presidential Palace - Lt. Col. Abdul Rahim, Major Shah Yosufi and Capt. Abdul Naseri - represented Afghanistan in the V-Day parade.

They were the first squad to appear at the parade among the 17 foreign troops represented in the military event.

Lt. Col. Rahim said he felt very excited as he marched along with the Afghan squad at the Tian'anmen Square in Beijing as he knew that millions were watching the parade not just in China but all over the world.

Major Yosufi and Capt. Naseri said the Afghan flag squad's participation could boost the image of the Afghan army. Both officers said they were impressed by the military hardware of the People's Liberation Army of China displayed during the parade.

They were also fascinated by the Chinese cultural and historical sites, such as the imperial palaces and the Great Wall that they have visited during their stay in China.

General Farahi said the V-Day commemoration in China has given them an opportunity to further enhance the military exchanges and cooperation between Afghanistan and China.

He said Afghanistan is facing challenges of the international terrorism and has suffered great losses and casualties in its protracted war against terrorism.

"We really need military support from regional countries, especially China, to help us upgrade our capabilities in terms of technology, equipment and personnel training," Farahi said.

Farahi believed China can play a bigger role in regional issues, especially in maintaining regional peace and stability.

Enhancing economic cooperation among countries in the region can help defeat terrorism, he added.

On the peace process with Taliban, Farahi said the door of the Afghan government is open for those Taliban militants who are willing to renounce violence and stop killing people. "But we will not allow terrorists to make Afghanistan their safe haven," he said. Endi