U.S. Ambassador visits Farah province

AFGHANISTAN

11.20.2007

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

By Chief Petty Officer Robert Thornton
Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah

FARAH CITY, Afghanistan – The Honorable William Wood, the U. S. ambassador to Afghanistan, recently visited Farah province.

During the visit, which lasted several hours, he dined with the members of the provincial council and Mullah Rahanni, head of the provincial Ulama Council. Following the luncheon, the ambassador met with Provincial Governor Mawlawi Mohideen Baluch, heads of the Afghan national security forces and Navy Cmdr. Frank Hughlett, Farah Provisional Reconstruction Team commander.

During a late afternoon press conference, the ambassador's message centered on the large amount of American assistance provided to Farah province.

"This province has been one of the largest recipients of United States economic assistance of all of the provinces of Afghanistan because of the importance of the province, and we intend to continue our commitment to Farah province," said Ambassador Wood.

Much of the assistance went into the construction of the Ring Road, which connects Farah with Herat and other major centers. But the United States has also funded hospitals, schools, irrigation canals and agricultural projects.

He also spoke of Afghanistan's relationship with Iran. "We want Afghanistan to be a source of stability for south and central Asia. We also hope that the other nations of south and central Asia will also be sources of stability for their neighbours, including Iran," he said.

• Date Taken: 11.20.2007
• Date Posted: 11.20.2007 11:58
• Story ID: 14069
• Location: AF