New runway opens at Mazar-e-Sharif airport

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

03.06.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and International Security Assistance Force officials opened a new runway at Mazar-e-Sharif airport in Balkh province March 3.

The Afghan deputy minister for transport and civil aviation, the governor of Balkh province, ISAF's Regional Command-North commander, numerous local officials, residents and media attended the ceremony officially opening the new 3,000 meter, $30 million runway. The runway was consecrated and blessed by Muezzin (second behind the Mullah) of the Blue Mosque.

"This project offers a large opportunity to boost traffic into the region, it provides the potential for an economic boom in the province," said Razz Mohammad Aelmi, Afghan Deputy Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation.

The new NATO-funded runway was built alongside the old runway, which is in urgent need of repair and can no longer be used by large-capacity aircraft.

Maj. Gen. Jochen Both, ISAF Joint Command deputy chief of staff for air operations, highlighted the decisive role the runway will have on reconstruction and stabilization in northern Afghanistan. It will be used as a hub for NATO troops flowing into northern Afghanistan as part of the troop increase.

Brig. Gen. Frank Leidenberger, RC-North commander, addressed the crowd in Dari saying Afghanistan's air traffic infrastructure needs to be rebuilt, which is one of the reasons Germany decided to step in and fund the project, which also includes a new terminal building.

"Together with our international friends we will find the best solutions for our country and will continue to proceed with its reconstruction and development," said Atta Mohammed Noor, the province governor.

• Date Taken: 03.06.2010
• Date Posted: 03.06.2010 12:03
• Story ID: 46249
• Location: KABUL, AF