BRUSSELS -- The European Commission Friday announced another package of humanitarian aid for vulnerable Afghans living inside the country and as refugees in neighboring states.

Eur 16.72 million has been allocated to support a series of actions including assistance for people returning home, support for drought-affected populations and logistics.

The funds are being channeled through the EU's humanitarian aid office (ECHO). Commenting on the decision, EU Commission for humanitarian aid Poul Nielson emphasized the EU's "ongoing commitment to the people of Afghanistan."

"Hundreds of thousands of Afghans who have returned need help to reestablish themselves and many others are still living in camps awaiting the opportunity to go back to their home areas. Helping these people is not just a moral imperative but also essential in consolidating the recovery process."

Since the beginning of 2001, the commission has provided humanitarian aid worth more than eur 100 million for the victims of the Afghan crisis.