LETTERS
U.S.-Afghan foreign policy
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle
As founding co-chair of the U.S.-Afghan Caucus, I am intimately aware of Afghanistan’s critical role in our foreign policy.
For more than 30 years, the Afghan people were subjected to a systematic loss of rights and liberties. In a region hindered by terrorist regimes that work relentlessly to see democracy fail, recent successes in Afghanistan are making a lasting impact.
To bring stability to this region means safer lives for everyone all over the world.
The Aga Khan Development Network is guided by the Islamic ethic of compassion for the less fortunate. AKDN is dedicated to improving living conditions and opportunities for the poor, without regard to their faith, origin or gender.
The network’s founder and chairman, His Highness the Aga Khan, who is marking his Golden Jubilee by completing his 50th year as the hereditary spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, is a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad.
AKDN’s mandates range from health and education to architecture, disaster relief, rural development and the promotion of private-sector enterprise and the revitalization of historic cities — all of which are catalysts for development in places like Afghanistan.
Its agencies spend in excess of $320 million annually on social and cultural development and operate more than 200 health care institutions (including nine hospitals) and more than 300 schools in the developing world.
His Highness the Aga Khan has been instrumental in the development and reconstruction of Afghanistan.
AKDN’s work can serve as a model on how governments and NGOs can partner effectively to create enabling environments. For example, the largest mobile phone company in Afghanistan sponsors microfinance projects that enable women to become independent entrepreneurs by selling phone services or repairing mobile phones. This private sector partner also provides playgrounds, meals, cultural and school projects for street children.
U.S. REP. SHEILA JACKSON LEE
Washington, D.C
Ismailimail 