Aid train crosses into Afghanistan

The first aid train has crossed a bridge from Uzbekistan into Afghanistan.

It is carrying 1,000 tons of grain and flour sent from Uzbekistan and the United Nations.

The Friendship Bridge has been re-opened after five years.

It links Termez, in Uzbekistan, to the Afghan town of Hairaton, about 40 miles from Mazar-e-Sharif.

The opening of the bridge is expected to speed aid to Afghan refugees who are battling cold, hunger and disease.

Uzbekistan has been reluctant to reopen the bridge despite pressure from the United Nations and other aid agencies.

It is the only bridge across the river border between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan.