New Delhi: The visit of Afghanistan President Hamid karzai, who has come here this time with special focus on seeking greater Indian investment in the country, today culminated in his country signing some important agreements with India, including ones on cooperation in coal mining and in fertiliser sector.
India whose development assistance to Afghanisatn is 2 billion dollars at present, also launched the third phase of its small development project in the war-torn country with the signing of another MoU on Monday.
Dr Singh said that the strategic partnership signed between the two countries had led to deepening of political and security cooperation, and now India wanted to develop a strategic economic cooperation with Afghanistan.
“We discussed the need to develop a strategic economic partnership, which will build on our economic synergies for mutual benefit. I also reiterated to President Karzai our belief that Afghanistan’s regional economic integration will contribute to overall prosperity and stability in the region,” he said.
The two leaders also discussed the changes in the security and political situation in and around Afghanistan.
“I expressed to President Karzai our belief that sustained international support and cooperation in all respects, including in combating terrorism emanating from the neighbourhood, will help Afghanistan meet these challenges. President Karzai’s own enlightened leadership will play a big part in this effort,” said the Prime Minister.
Besides the MoUs on Third Phase of Small Development projects, cooperation in mining and fertiliser, a MoU on cooperation in Youth Affairs was also signed on Monday.
India and Afghanistan intensify efforts for ensuring economic stability and security in the country as proposed withdrawal of the US forces takes place in 2014. (UNI)