DUSHANBE -- Iran is to send today the second consignment of humanitarian aid to Afghan refugees stranded for around three months on the border between Afghanistan and Tajikistan, Iran's ambassador to Tajikistan said Tuesday.

Rasoul Moussavi said the supplies weighing over 40 tons are to be distributed among the refugees suffering from malnutrition, lung infections and gastro-intestinal diseases. The supplies include flour, sugar, blankets, shoes and soaps.

In late December last year, Iran distributed 40 tons of humanitarian aid to Afghan refugees.

Iran and Tajikistan both support the moderate northern alliance backing Afghanistan's President Burhaneddin Rabbani against the Taleban which now controls some 90 percent of the country.

(IRNA)