Afghan response 'underwhelming'

Australian troops have played a vital role in Nato's Afghanistan efforts

Australia's defence minister has criticised some Nato member states for their "underwhelming" response to Afghanistan's ongoing problems.

In a televised speech, Joel Fitzgibbon expressed frustration at the refusal to commit extra troops by some nations - although he did not name the countries. Mr Fitzgibbon also indicated Australia might be willing to send advisers to Pakistan to help fight the Taleban.

Australia currently has about 1,000 troops in Afghanistan.

Mr Fitzgibbon said that if certain Nato countries were unwilling to contribute extra troops, they should at least contribute money to fund the expansion of the Afghan National Army.

And he suggested bolstering the fight against al-Qaeda, the Taleban and other militant groups such as Jemaah Islamiah by offering Pakistan support.

"We are committed to fight against those extremists and terrorists who are... making the world not safe," he said.

"We must arm the Pakistani army with the skills and means to conduct counter-insurgency campaigns and civil operations."

He said any deployment of military advisers would come only at the invitation of the Pakistan government.

The BBC's Nick Bryant, in Sydney, said Mr Fitzgibbon had delivered a very candid and frank assessment of the security situation in Afghanistan.

The offer of advisers to Pakistan is a major departure in Australian foreign policy, our correspondent adds.

But the comments reflect the growing concern, particularly in the US, UK and Australia, that the tribal areas of north-west Pakistan have become a sanctuary for the Taleban and a springboard for attacks in Afghanistan.