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Petraeus: Different Afghan approach necessary

PARIS — Gen. David Petraeus says a “comprehensive approach” is needed to quell the war in Afghanistan.

He says that includes reconciliation within the population and “absolute engagement” with neighboring Pakistan.

Petraeus is credited with saving Iraq from near civil war. He will steer strategy in Afghanistan and the region when he takes over the U.S. Central Command next month.

He told reporters during a visit Thursday to Paris that Afghanistan represents vast challenges not seen in Iraq.

Petraeus says an entire infrastructure is needed to support a significant increase in troops in Afghanistan as NATO wants. He says forces must be seen as liberators, not occupiers, to overcome al-Qaida and the Taliban.