"The Taliban need to understand that they will not be recognised by the international community if they take the country by force." He said NATO remained committed to supporting a political solution to the conflict. "Our aim remains to support the Afghan government and security forces as much as possible. The security of our personnel is paramount. NATO will maintain our diplomatic presence in Kabul, and continue to adjust as necessary," he said following consultations. "We continue to assess the developments on the ground, and we are in constant contact with the Afghan authorities and the rest of the international community," he said.