– It is sad for all of us to see that the Taliban will probably take over again. Hopefully, a solution can be found between the Taliban and what is left of the government, in order to find a system of government in the future. But we have known that at some point the Taliban had to re-enter Afghanistan. We have known this for a long time, says Solberg to NTB.
She says that Norway will remain at the field hospital in Kabul for the time being, but that other Norwegian personnel will be evacuated.
– Now we will first and foremost get out our personnel and those who have helped us.
– Does not pick up people who may be a danger to the kingdom’s security
The Prime Minister believes that there have been compelling reasons for refusing to stay for some Afghans who have worked for Norway.
– There are quite compelling reasons for rejection. It is the kingdom’s security – ie Norway’s security – that is the reason for this, says Solberg to NTB.
Around ten ex-employees in Afghanistan, largely cleaners, are said to have had their applications for residence in Norway rejected.
– The Minister of Justice and Emergency Preparedness has said that we can look at some of the cases again. But for me it is quite obvious that we do not bring people to Norway who can be a danger to the kingdom’s security, says Solberg.
Støre: – We have to stand up for them
Labor leader Jonas Gahr Støre calls the development in Afghanistan over the last 24 hours “dramatic”.
Støre says that Norway must now evacuate Norwegian personnel who are in Afghanistan, but also take care of Afghans who have previously worked for Norway.
– They have stood up for Norway, and we must stand up for them. Those of those who want to get out, we must help out, says Støre to NTB.
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