Russian President Dmitry Medvedev says his country wants to assist in reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan and make a contribution to the new United States strategy.

He says the additional US troops announced by President Barack Obama can be deployed via Russian territory. The Russian government also wants to take part in economic projects and help train the Afghan army and police. President Medvedev made his statements at a press conference in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Earlier today, Italy announced it would send 1,000 additional soldiers to Afghanistan next year. The United States will deploy 30,000 additional troops in the fight against the Taliban and has called on its allies to make a contribution as well. In addition to Italy, Poland and Spain will also send more troops.

Photo: Russian President Dmitry Medvedev (Kremlin.ru)