Warnings against linking Norwegian aid with troops in Afghanistan

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has encouraged NGOs to come forward with proposals for projects in Faryab province of Afghanistan where Norway has a military presence. One purpose is to make Norwegian aid efforts more visible in the province. Researchers are skeptical about waving donor flags in areas of military engagement. Development Minister Erik Solheim has halted the decision process about the matter, awaiting advice from a group of state secretaries.