Karzai assures NSA of steps to protect Indians

National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon, along with Ambassdor Jayant Prasad (Right) and Political Counsellor J.P. Singh. at the Indian Mission in Kabul. Photo: K.V. Prasad

National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon, who arrived here on Friday to discuss security aspects following attacks against Indians here last week, met President Hamid Karzai and discussed the situation.

Mr. Menon, who also met his counterpart Dadfar Rangin Spanta, reiterated India's commitment to the reconstruction of Afghanistan and recalled the historical and friendly relations between people of both countries.

Mr. Karzai said his government would take all steps to protect the lives of people engaged in the humanitarian and reconstruction work. Diplomatic sources said both sides also discussed bilateral issues.

Probe may be over soon

The Afghan side informed Mr. Menon that investigation into the February 26 attack was likely to be concluded soon. After the initial probe, the Afghan investigators said Lashkar-e-Taiba's hand in the attack was suspected.

Reaching the city exactly a week after the attacks on the Noor Guest Houseand the nearby Park Hotel in which seven Indians, including two Army officers, lost their lives, Mr. Menon had a full day despite a weekly holiday.