Japan Pledges $110 Million in Aid to Afghanistan

Japan says it will give Afghanistan $110 million in aid to help with border security, literacy and the plight of refugees in the war-torn country.

Japan announced its pledge Tuesday at the beginning of a two-day international conference in Tokyo on Afghan reconstruction aid.

Representatives from 24 countries and international organizations are attending the meeting, which will also focus on combating narcotics and improving security in Afghanistan.

Speaking Tuesday in Tokyo, Afghan Foreign Minister Rangeen Dadfar Spanta thanked the international community for its help and asked for its continued support.

Japan provides funds for Afghanistan's rebuilding efforts. Last month, Tokyo resumed a naval refueling mission in support of U.S.-led coalition efforts.

Afghanistan's foreign minister met with Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda in Tokyo on Monday ahead of the two-day meeting. During that gathering, Mr. Fukuda said Japan would continue to support Afghanistan's reconstruction and security.


Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.