The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has conveyed India's unwavering commitment to assisting Afghanistan in its endeavour to build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous country. He expressed hope that the strategic bilateral partnership would be further strengthened in the critical period ahead.

The assurance was given by the Prime Minister when Afghan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul called on him at his residence in New Delhi yesterday. According to an External Affairs Minstry's statement, Dr Singh conveyed his best wishes to President Hamid Karzai and other leaders of Afghanistan.

Afghan Foreign Minister Rassoul expressed his country's deep appreciation for India's friendship, generous assistance and the crucial role it is playing in the process of stabilisation and reconstruction and the economic development of Afghanistan.

External Affairs Minister S M Krishna assured his Afghan counterpart that India would continue its engagement in reconstruction and rehabilitation projects in tune with the Afghan National Development Strategy.