Afghan Border Security Conference Opens In Qatar

Members of the Afghan border guarsd patrolling the border with Iran (file photo) (epa) 27 February 2006 -- A two-day conference to discuss efforts to tighten security along Afghanistan's borders and to improve cooperation with neighboring countries has opened in Qatar.

A spokeswoman from the German delegation, Ingrid von Stumm, said the gathering will try to raise funds for the country's police force. Security forces are facing a deficit this year of around 30 million euros ($35.5 million).

Germany, which has been involved in training Afghan police since 2002, is cosponsoring the gathering along with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

Interior ministers from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Germany are attending.

(AFP)