China voices support for 1,500 MW hydropower project in Afghanistan

ASADABAD, Afghanistan China's plans to improve connectivity between Afghanistan and Pakistan could lead to the construction of a 1,500 MW hydropower plant in Afghanistan's eastern Kunar province.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the proposed hydroelectric project would be part of a package that also includes road and rail connections, all aimed at strengthening the region's economy and political stability. Officials from Afghanistan, Pakistan and China met to discuss the proposal in Kabul earlier this week, but did not specify when work on the plant might eventually begin. Council members and residents in Kunar said they were interested in supporting the project in September 2013, at which point HydroWorld.com reported a second 300 MW plant might be constructed downstream near Sagai.

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/02/china-voices-support-for-1500-mw-hydropower-project-in-afghanistan