January 10, 2002

‘32’

        India has expressed a keen desire to join the world community in reconstruction of Afganistan and offered expertise and assistance in reconstruction of Afganistan’s airports, bridges, power generation stations, hospitals, schools, residential colonies, drinking water supply and other urban infrastructure projects.

        The Minister for Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation, Shri Ananth Kumar conveyed this to Muhammad Arif Noorzai, Minister for Light Industries, Government of Afganistan, when he called on Shri Ananth Kumar here today.

        Shri Ananth Kumar stated that Central Public Works Department (CPWD) and National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) have been undertaking construction activities in developing countries.

        "India is better placed than other countries in providing construction related expertise to Afghanistan as CPWD has already constructed several ambitious projects such as hospitals and schools in Afghanistan. Moreover, Indian conditions are similar to those in Afghanistan" Shri Ananth Kumar pointed out and added that we have the appropriate and cost effective technology, suitable to Afghan conditions.

        Appreciating the gesture of Urban Development Minister, Mr. Noorzai recalled the very close relationship, which Afghanistan shared with India historically. He expressed hope that India can help in a big way in the reconstruction efforts of Afghanistan. He also extended an invitation to Shri Ananth Kumar to visit Afghanistan.