DATE=04-26-02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-

TITLE=Afghanistan-Rumsfeld holding (s)

BYLINE=SCOTT BOBB

DATELINE=KABUL

CONTENT=

// Eds: Secretary Rumsfeld is scheduled to avvive in Kabul 5:00 A-M EDT. Watch for update. ///

INTRO: U-S Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld is arriving Saturday (has arrived) in Afghanistan for a one-day visit. Correspondent Scott Bobb reports from Kabul the U-S official is to meet Afghan leaders and visits American troops station in the country.

TEXT: U-S Defense Secretary arrives in Afghanistan admits tied security where he is to confer with senior Afghan officials on the continuing fight against al-Qaida forces and Taleban allies. U-S coalition forces have established security in most of Afghanistan since driven out the Taleban five months ago.

But clashes continue to occur sporadically and Defense Secretary told reporters he expects a spring offensive by remnant of the groups.

Secretary Rumsfeld is also to meet with some of the eight-thousand U-S troops station in Afghanistan. He comes from neighboring Kyrgyzstan after meeting of senior officials and international troops based near the capital of Bishkek.

Secretary Rumsfeld is visiting several central Asian nations before going to Moscow on Monday. (Signed)

NEB/PT