UN welcomes Swedish pledge

The Office of the United Nations Coordinator for Afghanistan confirmed to IRIN on Tuesday that the Swedish government has pledged US $3.6 million in response to the Afghanistan 2001 appeal. "We are very grateful to the Swedes for their rapid and early response to the 2001 consolidated appeal," UN Deputy Coordinator for Afghanistan Antonio Donini said. "We are particularly pleased with the contribution earmarked to help displaced persons put their lives back on tract. In addition, their support for and recognition of the UN human rights programme for Afghanistan is particularly welcome." According to the Swedish Embassy in Islamabad, the pledge, covering areas such as mine action, aircraft operation, human rights, and agriculture, is indicative of the Swedish people's ongoing commitment to assist the Afghan people. "Afghanistan continues to be a serious humanitarian crisis area," counsellor on humanitarian affairs and development, Stefan Dahlgren, told IRIN on Wednesday. "This pledge is consistent with our long-term commitment to the consolidated efforts being made today to relieve some of the pain and suffering of the Afghan people," he added.