UK pledges £750m in development aid to Afghanistan

KABUL over the next four years, to provide the long-term development support needed to build a more prosperous and stable country.

The assistance would capitalise on recent progress and will support the Afghan government’s ambitious reform programme, a statement from the British Embassy said.

The aid will strengthen infrastructure and government systems, improve health services, support mine clearance and create the jobs and investment needed for Afghanistan to realise greater economic independence.

In addition, the UK is providing £15m in urgent response to the UN Flash Appeal to help returning refugees. This will provide emergency shelter, food, medicine and cash to highly vulnerable Afghan families.

While announcing the aid ahead of the Brussels Conference on 4-5 October, the UK urged other donors to follow its lead and support Afghanistan’s transition to self-reliance.

According to the statement, the UK will continue to hold the Afghan government to account for delivery of its reform programme and will track progress against the shared targets agreed by government and donors, supported by civil society.

UK International Development Secretary Priti Patel said: “This new support will help to save lives and prevent an immediate humanitarian crisis. In the long-term it will help build a stable, secure and prosperous Afghanistan...”

Ambassador Dominic Jermey CVO, OBE commented: “This ambitious pledge shows the UK’s enduring commitment to Afghanistan’s long-term development. Our support is based on the Afghan government’s credible reform plans for the coming four years, especially their strong commitments to tackling corruption and the culture of impunity.

“These efforts will ensure Afghans citizens, men and women, see the results of progress and improvements in their day to day lives, including better public service delivery and stability.”

pr/mud