UK to donate $370 mln in Afghan development process

KABUL, July 26 -- Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Sunday met with Minister of Overseas Development of United Kingdom(UK) Douglas Alexander and discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and the region, according to a statement issued by the presidential palace.

"Mr. Douglas Alexander praised the recent developments in Afghanistan, especially the increase of tax income, and development of agriculture sector and British government will grant 225 million Pounds (some 370 mln U.S. dollars) to support reconstruction in Afghanistan,"the statement said.

The British minister assured President Karzai that his country supports development process in Afghanistan and will continue its donation to the post-Taliban country.

Both sides discussed about development projects and boosting security in southern Helmand province where UK has deployed some 8,000 troopers to fight Taliban insurgents.