Government today said that the security forces are prepared to counter any possible terror attacks. Expressing concern over the growing nexus between al-Qaida, Lashkar-e-Taiba and other terror groups, Foreign Affairs Minister Mr S M Krishna said that India has to be prepared for defence as it has gone through the agony of terror attacks earlier. He was talking to reporters at the sidelines of the conference on South Asian regional cooperation in New Delhi today. Mr Krishna was reacting to the statement of US Defence Secretary Mr Robert Gates. Mr Gates said that the syndicate of terror led by al Qaida is dangerous for the stability of the region as this terrorist outfit is orchestrating attacks by using various terror groups including the Lashkar. He also said it will be unreasonable to assume that India will have unlimited patience in case it faces another Mumbai like attack.<br/><br/>Earlier, speaking at the conference, Mr Krishna called for greater cooperation among the South Asian countries for overall economic development of the region. Stressing upon the need for cohesive approach in the energy sector, Mr Krishna said that competition must be replaced with cooperation to ensure appropriate development in this field. He also expressed hope for finding a conclusion to the FTA in Trade and services and moldings the visa regime to encourage business and tourism.