Press Release: EU-Afghanistan Troika: Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner to confirm long term commitment

Benita Ferrero-Waldner Commissioner for External Relations will attend the EU-Afghanistan Ministerial Troika meeting on 28th January in Prague. Afghanistan is represented by Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta. The meeting will touch upon the implementation of Afghanistan’s democracy agenda, the preparation of Afghanistan’s presidential and parliamentary elections foreseen in 2009 as well as the EU's contribution to improving rule of law and regional developments including Afghan-Pakistan relations. Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner will confirm the EU's commitment to Afghanistan with the €500 million assistance package for 2008-2010 which focuses on three key priority areas: reform of the justice sector; rural development including alternatives to poppy production; and health.