India today said that any external interference in the transition process of Afghanistan will be detrimental to both its success and the future of the Afghan people. The External Affairs Minister said this in Kabul while replying to a question about international concerns that the transition process might become Pakistan-brokered and not Afghan-driven. Addressing a joint press conference along with his Afghan counterpart Zalmay Rasool in Kabul today. Mr Krishna said any external interference in the reintegration process would be detrimental to the future of democratic, stable, pluralistic and prosperous Afghanistan .Mr Krishna also reiterated India's position that reintegration can only happen with those who abjure violence,snap their links with terror outfits and abide by the constitution of Afghanistan.Mr Rasool also said that the peace process cannot succeed without being led by the Afghan people . Mr Krishna asserted that despite security concerns, India will continue to provide developmental assistance saying that India is not going to be cowed down by any threat . In February last year, seven Indians were killed in a Taliban suicide attack . They two leaders were speaking to media after detailed discussions between them on issues like terrorism in the region, security of Indians , existence of militants' safe havens across the border and reintegration and reconciliation process. Apart from discussing long-term projects, India announced establishment of a course in Pashtun and Deri languages in Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi and the export of 100,000 tones of wheat to Afghanistan. AIR correspondent says India has pledged USD 1.3 billion for post-war reconstruction projects in Afghanistan. Mr. Krishna, also called on President Hamid Karzai.
News On AIR | January 9, 2011 7:27 PM
External interference in Afghanistan's transition process will be detrimental to its success: Krishna