Polish President Lech Kaczynski is paying a visit to Afghanistan. He told his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai in Kabul that Poland would be gradually increasing its financial assistance to Afghanistan.

He also said that later this week he will approve a decision on increasing the size of the Polish military contingent in Afghanistan.  It is to be boosted from 1600 to 2200 troops. President Karzai thanked Mr Kaczyński for the presence of Polish soldiers and their role in the fight against terrorism. He stressed Poland’s contribution to the development of all spheres of life in Afghanistan, from education to health service.

The day’s programme also included President Kaczynski‘s visit to the Polish base in Ghazni province but due to bad weather conditions a helicopter flight there had to be cancellled. Instead the president met Polish soldiers in command of Kabul Airport. 
Poland first sent troops to Afghanistan in 2002. The Polish contingent is part of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force.