For the Record (8)

Afghanistan celebrated two years under Marxist rule Sunday with a new flag and constitution -- and with an estimated 110,000 Soviet troops in the country supporting the government of President Babrak Karmal. The Press Trust of India news agency reported the Soviet military contingent was believed to be backed by 5,000 talks and armored personnel carriers as well as aircraft and medium-range ballistic missiles. Foreign delegations in Kabul for the anniversary included a Soviet group led by Mikhail Zimyanin, a member of the Communist Party Secretariat. Afghanistan's defense minister pledged the armed forces would defend the country against internal and external enemies supported by the US, China, Pakistan, Egypt, and Israel.