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News Archive
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DEBATE ON THE HUMANITARIAN SITUATION IN AFGHANISTAN
The Secretary of State for International Development, Clare Short, opened a debate in the House of Commons, on 1 November, on the current ‘desperate’ situation in Afghanistan. She first of all, highlighted the suffering that the people of Afghanistan have had to endure as a result of war and famine over many years and the ‘barbarism’ the Taliban have inflicted on them. Ms Short went on to express concern over the difficulties faced by United Nations and other aid agencies in trying to alleviate the suffering, but stressed that a pause in the bombing campaign would only make the situation worse. She said that liaison between the humanitarian effort and the military campaign is crucial to ensure that relief gets through to those who need it. The Secretary of State underlined the UK’s support for UN plans for the rehabilitation of Afghanistan and announced that she would be making £1 million available to Ambassador Brahimi, who is leading the efforts. She added that education is crucial for the ‘restoration’ of the country.
BRITAIN AND POLAND: PARTNERSHIP AND THE FUTURE OF EUROPE
In a doorstep interview on 2 November, the Prime Minister, Tony Blair, and his Polish counterpart, Leszek Miller, reported on their discussions that day. In addition to discussing the international situation post-11 September, the two discussed in detail Poland's entry into the EU. Mr Blair spoke of the 'strong sense of partnership' that exists between Britain and Poland, and took the opportunity to publish a joint Polish-British contribution on the debate about the future of Europe.
MINISTERIAL ENGAGEMENTS
In addition to their regular official and parliamentary duties, FCO Ministers have the following public engagements...
TRAVEL ADVICE NOTICES
The following countries have updated travel advice notices.
FCO Daily Bulletin...
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