Reaffirming its commitment to strengthen democracy in war-ravaged Afghanistan, Government today approved construction of a Parliament building and Indian Chancery complex in Kabul.
A meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, gave its nod to the proposed combined project, which would be constructed at a revised estimated cost of Rs 950 crore.
"The construction of Parliament building will be a visible symbol of India's contribution towards strengthening and rebuilding democracy in Afghanistan," Minister of State in PMO Prithviraj Chavan told reporters here.
He said the project would generate a goodwill for India in Afghanistan. While the Chancery is expected to be completed in 16 months, the Parliament building would take a period of 36 months, he said.
The construction of the Chancery complex would provide a secure and functional base for India's diplomatic functions in Kabul.
The Prime Minister, during his visit to Afghanistan in August 2005, laid the foundation stone for the proposed Parliament building.
Top Section
Explore Business Standard