US Treasury Expands Authorizations for Transactions with Afghanistan’s Governing Institutions
Washington D.C. - In a move aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis in war-torn Afghanistan, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has announced an expansion of authorizations for commercial and financial transactions with the country’s governing institutions.
New Authorizations for Commercial Transactions
Under General License (GL) 20, all transactions involving Afghanistan or its governing bodies are now authorized, subject to certain conditions. This move is designed to prevent US sanctions from hindering aid efforts and underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting the Afghan people through a concerted effort with the private sector, international partners, and humanitarian organizations.
Providing Clarity for NGOs, Financial Institutions, and Private Companies
The new authorization provides much-needed clarity for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), financial institutions, and private companies seeking to engage in commercial activities or provide aid in Afghanistan. The US government has maintained robust sanctions on the Taliban and Haqqani Network, but is providing necessary exemptions to facilitate humanitarian work with local partners.
US Aid Efforts
As the single largest donor of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, the United States has provided over half a billion dollars in assistance since August 2021. USAID continues to play a critical role in addressing the country’s dire humanitarian crisis, providing:
- Food
- Shelter
- Medical care
- And other life-saving support to those in need
US Government-Supported Humanitarian Partners Remain Operational
US Government-supported humanitarian partners remain operational, working to maintain safe aid delivery and expand operations across the country in response to growing needs. USAID will continue to work closely with other US agencies, UN organizations, donor partners, and the international community to provide urgent assistance that directly benefits the Afghan people.
Key Takeaways:
• The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has expanded authorizations for commercial and financial transactions with Afghanistan’s governing institutions. • General License 20 allows all transactions involving Afghanistan or its governing bodies, subject to certain conditions. • The move aims to prevent US sanctions from hindering aid efforts and support the Afghan people through a concerted effort with the private sector, international partners, and humanitarian organizations.