Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of COVID-19 on the situation in Afghanistan.

We are deeply concerned about the spread of COVID-19 in Afghanistan. The pandemic and its secondary effects will create significant challenges for Afghanistan as it aims to overcome the legacy of over 40 years of conflict and become a more stable and prosperous state. We remain committed to working closely with the Afghan Government to improve the country's security, development and governance and will continue to provide diplomatic support to help push for a sustainable and inclusive peace process.

On the immediate response to COVID-19 in Afghanistan, the UK contributes significantly to the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund - providing 75% of its funding - which has allocated $1.5 million to the World Health Organisation to implement their response plan and $27m towards the multi-sector response in country. We will continue to assess the need for further assistance as the situation develops.