NATO Leaders sign deal on Afghan security

NATO secretary-general Ander Fogh Rasmussen said the deal would mean the organisation starting to reduce troops next year and handing over security control to the Afghans by 2014.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said that by 2015, “British troops will not be there in a combat role or anything like the present numbers.” Hague, however, acknowledged some UK forces could remain in training roles.

"What we want is for Afghanistanto be in a condition where Afghans can run their own affairs without posing a danger to the rest of the world - that's why we are there," Hague said.

Russiais expected to agree to help NATO in the conflict in Afghanistan, but has ruled out getting involved in the conflict on the ground. The Russian Government will offer logistical support to the alliance, allowing equipment to move across its territory and providing specialised helicopters.