India to discuss Afghanistan’s demand on supply of military equipments
Indian officials on Saturday announced New Delhi’s willingess to “discuss and respond” to specific requests by Afghan government regarding supply of lethal weapons to Afghan security forces.
The demand to supply lethal and non-lethal weapons to Afghan security forces was raised publicy by Afghan envoy to India, however, New Delhi insisted that such discussions will be held through proper channels.
Afghan ambassador to India, Shaida M Abdali on Thursday said that president Hamid Karzai will visit India to hold talks on bileral issues including enhanced defense cooperation of India to Afghanistan.
According to reports India has supplied only non-lethal military equipments to Afghan security forces since the two nations singed a long term strategic cooperation agreement.
While speaking during a media briefing, Union External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said, the two countries had mechanisms available to address all issues.
Syed Akbaruddin quoted by The New Indian Express said, “Our view is that there is a mechanism available, and within our modest means as a developing country, we will continue to discuss and respond to specific requests from the Afghan government.”
He said, “There are diplomatic channels available and we will consider these (requests) as and when they are raised in the channels available.”
He also noted that the SP pact is implemented by the SPA council, chaired by the foreign ministers.
Under this agreement, there are four rubrics, including those for political and security consultations.
President Hamid Karzai is due to visit India on a two day tour from 20 to 22 May.