Merkel favors Afghan deployments

German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged the German congress on Wednesday to support the extension of Germany's deployment in the peace-keeping mission in Afghanistan.

Speaking to the German parliament, Merkel said the missions in Afghanistan were essential until Afghans were able to look after their own security.

The missions in Afghanistan include U.S.-led Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and the associated NATO-led International Security Assistance Force operation.

A new opinion poll showed 52 percent of Germans favor ending Germany's deployment.

However, Merkel told the parliament she took seriously the concerns about OEF, saying that "we are in full solidarity with the whole operation."

Currently Germany has sent over 3,000 troops to Afghanistan, mainly engaged in training Afghan security forces.

Six Tornado reconnaissance jets were deployed on a six-month mandate in April, along with up to 500 military personnel.

In the third deployment, OEF can call on up to 100 elite KSK troops, although these are not currently deployed.

Merkel proposed combining the first two mandates and putting them to the parliament for renewal next month. The OEF mandate comes up for renewal in November.

Observers believe the parliament are expected to approve the proposal despite fierce opposition from the opposition parties.