KABUL, Afghanistan (11 June) – Col. Rune Soellberg took command of the Norwegian-led PRT Meymaneh during a change of command ceremony Monday in Faryab Province.

The new commander, on his fourth tour to Afghanistan, took the reins from Col. Knut Fredheim.

“I have already noticed many changes toward the better,” said Colonel Soellberg. “More and more people now have access to fresh water and can live in a secure environment.

“But, we need to keep up our efforts on redeveloping Afghanistan,” he added.

German Brig. Gen. Frank Leidenberger, Regional Command North commander, presided over the ceremony. Norwegian Ambassador to Afghanistan, His Excellency Kare Aas, and several Afghan dignitaries attended as well.

“The positive achievement of PRT Meymaneh is also a result of the Scandinavian way of life and its culture,” said the general. “A great sense of humor, combined with a warm heart, an open mind, tolerance and consideration toward the Afghan population are the two special brands of this PRT.”

Servicemembers from five nations – Iceland, Latvia, Macedonia, Norway and the United States – work at PRT Meymaneh.

Photos: Northern Afghan Provincial Reconstruction Team Has New Commander