FARYAB - Izumi Nakamitsu, the Director of the Asia and Middle East Division of the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, led a UN delegation to Maimana city of Faryab province on Thursday last week.

The officials were received with warm welcome by Faryab Provincial Governor Mohammadullah Batash in his office.

During a meeting between Ms. Nakamitsu and Governor Batash, the latter highlighted UNAMA’s role in supporting peace and attracting international attention for development of Faryab in different sectors.

“I’ve recently taken over as governor of Faryab and I have realized that there has been a very strong relation and cooperation between UNAMA and Provincial Government here since many years and I am sure the development of this province wouldn’t have been possible without the support of UNAMA,” said Governor Batash.

Many roads, schools, and other facilities have been constructed in Faryab over the past few years.

Ms. Nakamitsu, who took on the current responsibility in August, said she chose to visit Afghanistan as her first official trip to the field. “I am fascinated by seeing this country and the work being done here,” said Ms. Nakamitsu.

In response to a question by media about UNAMA’s commitment beyond 2014 she said, “UNAMA has been here before 2014, and will be in Afghanistan during and after 2014”, reassuring UNAMA’s commitment to helping Afghanistan in achieving sustainable peace and development.

Later in the meeting, Governor Batash pointed out the current achievements and challenges in Faryab and urged UN’s more and continuous support in all sectors including security, development, education, and good governance.

Located far from capital Kabul, Faryab has been famous for having writers, poets and intellectuals for hundreds of years, as well as fine carpets and handcrafts.

In the recent months despite infiltration of insurgents in some of Faryab’s districts, the city itself is rapidly growing and a lot of children go to schools. In order to keep the momentum, a huge support from the Government and the international community is still required until the city really achieves its development goals.

By UNAMA Mazar