"There is a difference between a military mission and the aspiration for the long-term plans for the country. What we want is a stable enough Afghanistan, able to look after its own security so we can leave without the fear of it imploding... But let's be clear - it's not going to be perfect"

In this quote, Liam Fox, a British politician who functioned as Secretary of State for Defence, discusses the distinct goals and expectations related to military interventions and wider nation-building efforts. There are several aspects to unpack in this statement:

1. ** Difference in Objectives **: Fox delineates between a "military objective" and the "goal for the long-lasting plans for the nation". This distinction highlights that military missions, such as those performed in Afghanistan, typically have concrete, instant objectives, such as beating a particular opponent or protecting a region. In contrast, long-term aspirations involve wider, strategic objectives focused on promoting sustainable peace, political stability, and socio-economic advancement.

2. ** Stability and Security **: The core goal Fox mentions is achieving a "steady enough Afghanistan, able to take care of its own security". This suggests that the supreme goal for international forces is to enable Afghanistan to separately preserve its stability and avoid any vacuums of power that may cause turmoil or revival of extremist groups. This goal underscores the significance of building reliable Afghan security forces and reputable political institutions.

3. ** Realism and Limitations **: By acknowledging that "it's not going to be best", Fox injects an element of realism into the discourse. This statement acknowledges the complexities and challenges fundamental in nation-building and acknowledges that while aspirations for a fully steady Afghanistan are high, problems and imperfections are inescapable. The phrase recommends approval that worldwide impact can only go so far which it is essential to set sensible expectations for what can be accomplished.

4. ** Exit Strategy **: The desire to transition responsibility for security to Afghans and "leave without the fear of it imploding" highlights the value of an exit method. This shows a strategic goal to withdraw foreign soldiers without leaving a power vacuum that could result in instability or conflict, stressing the requirement for the Afghan government to have the capability to support peace and order.

In general, Fox's quote encapsulates the tension in between military objectives and nation-building goals while promoting for a practical method to worldwide intervention that focuses on sustainable security and stability.