Secretary-General Welcomes Japan’s Intention to Boost Aid for Afghanistan

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General has been informed of the Government of Japan's intention to increase their assistance for Afghanistan to a total of up to $5 billion over the next five years. The Secretary-General welcomes this very positive development and hopes that other members of the international community will follow suit. The Secretary-General appreciates Japan’s generous and continued contributions to the efforts and commitment of the international community to promote reconstruction and stability in Afghanistan.

* *** *

__________

* Reissued to reflect the correct amount of assistance.