Address at the Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan

Excellencies,

Allow me to join in thanking the Japanese Government and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for co-hosting this conference here in Tokyo.

Norway will maintain its development assistance at the present level of approximately USD 125 million annually until 2017. In line with the Kabul decisions, we will continue to deliver on the 50%-on-budget and 80%-alignment commitments.

As we committed to in the Kabul Process, donors must do their part by channelling funds through Afghan budgets and in accordance with Afghan priorities. This is vital in order to ensure that the international effort contributes to sustainable and long term Afghan development

Norway will do its part, as we are expecting Afghanistan to do its - in line with international commitments and the rights enshrined in the Afghan Constitution.

We expect the Afghan authorities to continue their efforts to develop good governance and fight corruption. We are pleased to see that the IMF Board noted progress on economic and fiscal reforms – but there are remaining challenges to be addressed:

One, effective and just provision of services to the Afghan people is key.

Two, in order for the political transition to be legitimate, the 2014 elections must be credible, inclusive and transparent.

Three, but not least, gender equality. Priority must be given to the meaningful participation of women at all levels of government – national, regional and local – and to their right to assume leadership roles and to participate in the reconciliation efforts.

Let me also echo those who have pointed to the importance of this issue in our own constituencies. Real commitment and progress on the empowerment of women is important in order to maintain public and political support for continued high levels of development support to Afghanistan from my own country.

Four, Civil Society. I have been impressed by the input from the Afghan civil society representatives. Active civil society partnerships will enhance the credibility and legitimacy of our joint efforts.

Lastly, the Afghan Government will and must take the lead in our joint endeavour.

Plans and priorities will have to be adapted to changing circumstances. Accountability and transparency will be key. The process post-Tokyo, with clear, agreed timelines, is important. We therefore welcome the review mechanism adopted today.