US, India commit to creating a stable, pluralistic Afghanistan

WASHINGTON - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her Indian counterpart S.M. Krishna on Thursday reiterated their countries shared interest and commitment towards creating a stable, sovereign, democratic and pluralistic Afghanistan.

In a joint statement issued here after the first US-India Strategic Dialogue, both reiterated the importance of a sustained international commitment to Afghanistan that builds local capacities through Afghan-led initiatives.

According to the statement, Secretary Clinton welcomed India’s vital contribution to reconstruction, capacity building and development efforts in Afghanistan and its offer to enhance efforts in this direction.

“Both sides pledged to explore opportunities for coordination on civilian assistance projects that advance Afghan self-sufficiency and build civilian capacity. India and the U.S. committed to regularly consult with each other on Afghanistan. It is in our common interest that the people of Afghanistan succeed in their reconstruction and development efforts without outside interference, in an atmosphere free from violence and extremism.

Afghanistan’s success is vital for the security and stability of the region,” the statement said. (ANI)