As NATO prepares to wind down its operations in Afghanistan at the end of the year -- its secretary General Jens Stoltenberg reaffirms the alliances commitment to stabilizing the country -- and ensuring that the gains made at such high a price are preserved.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) NATO SECRETARY GENERAL, JENS STOLTENBERG, SAYING:<br/> <br />"At the end of this year Afghan forces will assume full responsibility for the security of this country and I am confident that they are ready."<br/> <br />Afghan forces have been largely left to fight the Taliban on their own this year, in their first real test since they were ousted from power in 2001 by U.S.-led forces.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) NATO SECRETARY GENERAL, JENS STOLTENBERG, SAYING:<br/> <br />"Next year we will open a new chapter. The future of Afghanistan will be in Afghan hands, but our support will continue. We will start a new mission to train, advise and assist Afghan forces, we will also continue our financial support and as president
