Latest update: 23/03/2011 

- Afghanistan - Angela Merkel - Germany - vote


Bundestag decides whether or not to continue soldiers' mission in Afghanistan

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The German Parliament is deciding whether or not to extend its soldiers' mission in Afghanistan. Eight were killed in fighting in the northern provinces last year, and the continued presence of German troops in the country is a source of much anger back home. The Bundestag wants to withdraw, but it's not that simple, leaving Chancellor Angela Merkel with a dilemma: leave before the job's done, or face the wrath of the voters.

FOCUS
By Abby D'ARCY HUGHES / Anne MAILLIET / Brice BOUSSOUAR

Programme prepared by Kate Williams, Marie Billon and Patrick Lovett

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