"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"

This quote by Liam Fox talks to the intricacy of the objective in Afghanistan. He acknowledges that while the military objective is important, the long-term plans for the nation are equally important. Fox is stressing the requirement for a steady Afghanistan that has the ability to look after its own security so that the military can leave without fear of the country collapsing. Nevertheless, he is also being practical in acknowledging that the country will not be ideal. This quote talks to the tough balance in between the need for a successful military objective and the requirement for a steady and safe and secure Afghanistan in the long-lasting.