Obama hails Japan's $5B in Afghan aid

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- The Obama administration Wednesday welcomed Japan's decision to provide Afghanistan about $5 billion in aid over five years, the White House said.

"The (United States) appreciates all that Japan has done to assist in the stabilization and reconstruction of Afghanistan and welcomes Japan's renewed commitment to development assistance for this international effort," Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said in a statement.

The Japanese Cabinet Tuesday authorized $5 billion in aid to Afghanistan during the next five years. The civilian aid will be used for reconstruction in the war-torn nation, including improving security and training of police officers. A government statement said Japan will also make "financial contributions" to sponsor programs for vocational training and job creation for former Taliban insurgents.

"Japan is among the largest bilateral donors in foreign assistance to Pakistan and Afghanistan, reflecting Japan's crucial leadership in the region and around the globe," Gibbs said in the statement.

"As President Obama prepares to travel to Japan he looks forward to renewing our strong alliance with Japan, and discussing our continued partnership on Afghanistan, Pakistan, and critical bilateral issues. "