Development minister Bert Koenders and the German government will today begin working together on three infrastructure projects in southern Afghanistan.
They involve the construction of arrivals and departures halls, an access road and the training of staff for the airport at Kamp Holland near Tarin Kowt, and the future construction of a technical school in Uruzgan and the renovation of an existing technical school in Kandahar.
'These projects are vital for the future of two of the poorest provinces in one of the poorest countries in the world,' said Mr Koenders. 'I see this new German-Dutch partnership as an extension of our 3D approach. It also fits in well with the 3D approach that I have discussed with the new US government.'
The projects were proposed by the Afghans themselves. 'The economy in Uruzgan can only develop in a sustainable manner if the province is readily accessible to companies, the government and aid organisations, and if enough qualified people from the province itself can be employed.'
The projects will cost a total of €23.3 million, and are expected to be completed by the end of 2010.