KABUL, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Canada announced on Sunday to provide 2 million U.S. dollars to support women in the war-torn Afghanistan, a press release of the Canadian embassy issued here said.

    "The aim of this assistance is to provide Afghan women improved access to basic services and encourage their participation in the local economy," the press release said.

    The announcement of new grant on the International Women's Day, according to the press release, will provide Afghan women with the training and support services necessary so they can become contributing members of the local economy.

    Canada also announced last week provision of 27 million U.S. dollars to support holding upcoming elections in Afghanistan.