§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent representations she has made to the EU regarding development assistance to(a) the Kyrgyz Republic, (b) Tajikistan and (c) Uzbekistan. [24272]
§ Clare ShortI have discussed future EC assistance to Central Asia with Chris Patten, Commissioner for External Relations. My officials have also discussed this on a number of occasions with Commission staff. I am very pleased that EU development assistance to the region, which includes the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, is to double.
556W
§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what representations she has made to the British Council to open an office in the Kyrgyz Republic. [24274]
§ Clare ShortI have not made representations to the British Council. I understand, however, that if a bid for funds is successful, the Council plan to open an office in the Kyrgyz Republic in 2004–05.