International donors meeting in Tokyo have promised a total of $4.5bn to help Afghanistan to start rebuilding after years of war. More than $1.8bn is set to be given in the first year, with funding over the next few years bringing the total to $4.5bn.
Afghan delegates at the meeting expressed delight at the amount pledged, but questions remain about how quickly the money will be provided, and ensuring it reaches those most in need. Most of the funds will come from Japan, the US, the European Union and Saudi Arabia. "I regard it as a very, very good start," World Bank President James Wolfensohn said .

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