France Backs Trump Pledge to Keep US Troops in Afghanistan

FILE - U.S. soldiers ready a howitzer to be towed into position at Bost Airfield in Afghanistan's Helmand Province in this June 10, 2017 photo provided by Operation Resolute Support.

France on Wednesday backed a commitment by U.S. President Donald Trump to maintain a military presence in Afghanistan.

"France recognizes the importance of this undertaking and remains resolutely engaged in the struggle against terrorism," a Foreign Ministry statement said.

Trump on Monday rowed back on a campaign pledge to quit Afghanistan, committing instead to an open-ended "fight to win" against Taliban insurgents there.