India supports lasting peace in Afghanistan

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh says his country supports durable peace in Afghanistan, calling for concrete steps towards rebuilding the war-torn country, Press TV reports. "India supports efforts to achieve a lasting peace in Afghanistan that brings together all sections of Afghan society while preserving the achievements of the last decade, including in the area of women's rights," Singh told reporters after a meeting with visiting Afghan President Hamid Karzai in New Delhi on Monday. "We respect the choices that the Afghan people make of their own free will," he said. Singh added that India supports Afghanistan’s nation-building efforts, especially in the areas of governance, security, and development. For his part, Karzai said that attracting investment from Indian companies is a priority of his visit. The strategic partnership agreement signed between Kabul and New Delhi last year has also been reviewed by the two leaders. Singh reaffirmed commitment to deepen cooperation "in accordance with the vision outlined in the agreement." The deal has obliged India to provide training to Afghan soldiers. India has already invested over USD two billion in Afghanistan. Various Indian companies are involved in highway, hospital, and electricity projects in the war-ravaged country. Karzai, who arrived in the Indian capital for a five-day-long official visit, was welcomed by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee on Monday.