US defence officials have asserted that Afghanistan would be ready to handle its own security by the year 2014.Defence Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Adm. Mike Mullen said NATO should endorse the 2014 timeline proposed by Afghan President when the alliance holds its annual summit later this month. The U.S. plans to begin withdrawing some of its troops next summer, but has never said exactly how long some forces would remain.The top NATO civilian in Afghanistan, Mark Sedwill has said the 2014 deadline is feasible for all but a residual allied force including special forces and trainers will remain.