Ajit Doval meets Afghan counterpart to discuss security situation

The security situation in Afghanistan and elections in the war-ravaged country came up for discussion during a meeting between National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Afghan counterpart Hamdullah Mohib here on Friday. According to a statement issued by the External Affairs Ministry, both the NSAs had a detailed exchange of views about the developments in Afghanistan. "NSA Mohib briefed the Indian side about the security situation, the holding of parliamentary elections and scheduled presidential elections, and efforts of the government of Afghanistan at peace and reconciliation," said the statement.

"He appreciated the assistance provided by India for economic development and reconstruction of Afghanistan and also for human resource development, including training of Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in India," it stated. On his part, Doval conveyed India's continued support for the efforts of the government and the people of Afghanistan to bring peace, security and prosperity in that country. "He mentioned that India supports all efforts for peace and reconciliation that are Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled," the statement said.

"Regional and international partners of Afghanistan need to work keeping in mind the priorities, wishes and desires of the Afghan people." According to the statement, India welcomes the fact that the people of Afghanistan "have time and again reposed faith in democratic governance and the forthcoming presidential elections in Afghanistan will further deepen the roots of democracy in Afghanistan". Parliamentary elections held in Afghanistan in October were overwhelmed by delays because of technical problems. To give time to fix these problems, the presidential election that was scheduled to be held in April has now been deferred to July.

India, which is a leading development aid partner of Afghanistan, is closely monitoring the situation in that country. India is supportive of the current government in Afghanistan and believes that there should be a dialogue between this government and other political forces to bring about any peace process. However, New Delhi has maintained its policy of not talking with the Taliban during the peace process.

(With inputs from agencies.)