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US, India agree to keep in close touch on Afghanistan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

New Delhi, Sept 28, IRNA -- Amid concerns over surge in terrorism and instability in Afghanistan, the US and India have agreed to 'keep in close touch' about developments in the war-torn nation as Washington appreciated New Delhi's efforts in the country's development.

India and US agreed to embark on a road of 'triangular cooperation' in Afghanistan in a meeting between Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in New York.

According to Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, who accompanied Krishna for the talks with Clinton, both countries felt the 'need to keep in close touch about developments in Afghanistan because they share the same goals and concerns' to combat terrorism and secure stability.

The top Indian diplomat told journalists that the US appreciated India's efforts in the development sector in Afghanistan, which included the empowerment of the weaker sections and women as well as other activities in health, education and telecommunications sectors.

US Assistant Secretary Robert Blake said Clinton and Krishna 'discussed our shared commitment to Afghanistan.'

'Secretary Clinton thanked the minister for the extensive development assistance India has provided Afghanistan and she expressed US desire to continue to work closely in that important country,' he told journalists after the meeting.

They decided to embark on a road of 'triangular cooperation' in Afghanistan and African countries with a focus on developmental projects that all the three countries can work on together.

In the coming few months, officials from the USAID and India will identify countries and projects, according to Rao.

Pakistan has objected to India's presence in Afghanistan, and raised the matter with the US several times.

Under pressure from Islamabad, Washington has previously hinted at a lesser role for India in the war-torn country, which New Delhi has firmly rejected.