New Delhi:
Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh met his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai on Monday. And apart from talks on security measures, he was extended an invitation to visit Afghanistan by Karzai, which the Prime Minister has accepted.
The dates are being worked out for the visit.
Hamid Karzai's plans to negotiate with the Taliban for a mainstream role make New Delhi nervous, and today Prime Minister Manmohan Singh conveyed India's concerns.
According to government sources, Karzai reiterated that red lines would not be crossed in the reintegration process, which means no talks with those with links to the Taliban, Al-Qaida or other terror groups.
But the trouble is India doesn't quite see that distinction.
"We discussed the upcoming Afghanistan peace consultations which should comprise people of Afghanistan, those from all walks of life, to advise on how to move forward for reintegration and reconciliation of those elements of Taliban and others who have accepted the Constitution and who are not part of the Al-Qaida or any terrorist network," Karzai said after meeting Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Karzai also assured Dr Singh of better security for Indians in Afghanistan, while the PM said India is ready to step up its assistance.
"Mr Karzai has assured me of security for Indians," said the Prime Minister.
With a major peace conference due next month on how to proceed with the Taliban, India is watching closely.