RIGA, October 17 (Itar-Tass) - Latvia's parliament has ruled to prolong Latvian military involvement in NATO's international operation in Afghanistan. The decision to keep Latvian military in Afghanistan till the end of next year was approved by seventy-one deputies, with six nays and three abstentions.

“Bearing in mind the priority NATO attaches to the operation of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, Latvia should continue its contribution within the alliance and prove its reputation of a reliable ally. The National Armed Forces' participation in ISAF operations is linked with our partners’ plans in Afghanistan, including the assumption that Latvia will provide assistance till 2014,” reported the Latvian Defence Ministry.

Last week the UN Security Council for the last time prolonged the powers of the ISAF, which has been fighting Taliban under NATO's command since 2001.

Latvia has been involved in the international operation in Afghanistan since 2003. The parliament has repeatedly rejected the Russian-speaking opposition’s demands for a pullout. About 140 Latvian military are now in Afghanistan.