Karzai and Singh agree to India-Afghan pact

Published on Tuesday 4 October 2011 22:02

Afghanistan has signed a strategic partnership with India – its first such agreement – recognising a regional ally largely sidelined during a decade of international efforts to root out terrorists on Afghan soil.

While the pact had been expected, its timing sparked speculation of a shift in regional alignments after Afghan president Hamid Karzai chastised neighbouring Pakistan for failing to act against Taleban-led insurgents within its borders.

After meeting yesterday, both Mr Karzai and Indian premier Manmohan Singh spoke about the need for peace and prosperity. “Afghanistan recognises the danger that this region is facing through terrorism and the radicalism that’s been used as an instrument of policy against civilians, against innocent citizens of our countries,” Mr Karzai said.

But he also emphasised the need for regional co-operation, saying his country would “aspire to a life that is free of violence, and will seek co-operation and understanding from the members of this region, including our other neighbours”.

Mr Singh emphasised their historical and cultural links. “The people of Afghanistan have suffered enough. They deserve to live in peace and decide their future themselves, without outside interference, coercion and intimidation,” he said.

The strategic partnership outlines areas of common concern including trade, economic expansion, education, security and politics. They also signed deals to boost co-operation in mining, oil and gas.

“Afghanistan will benefit from India’s expertise,” Mr Karzai said.

Over the weekend Mr Karzai said he was giving up on negotiating with the Taleban directly, and had accused Pakistan of doing little to help rein in terrorists.