U.S. aid to Afghanistan will decrease by 50 percent

In 2008, the United States will cut aid to Afghanistan by 50 percent, according to the U.S. State Department. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported on Monday that assistance will be cut from $10.1 billion in 2007 to $4.7 billion next year.

The high funding in 2007 was provided as an economic catalyst, intended to “jump-start” crucial programs for development and military training, claims U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Richard Boucher.

Although the drop is significant, the secretary did not express concern. It remains uncertain as to how the decrease in aid will affect ongoing development programs and the Afghan economy in general.

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