NEW DELHI, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Indian government Thursday said it supports all peace initiatives leading towards a lasting political settlement in Afghanistan.
The statement was made by India's junior foreign minister V Muraleedharan at the upper house of Indian parliament, locally called Rajya Sabha.
"As a contiguous neighbour and strategic partner, India has a steadfast policy to support sovereign, democratic and peaceful Afghanistan, where the interest of all sections of Afghan society including women, children and minorities are protected," the minister said.
"India supports all peace initiatives leading towards a lasting political settlement through an inclusive Afghan led, Afghan owned and Afghan controlled process which would lead to peace and stability in the region."
The minister said the Indian government was in touch with various stakeholders within and outside Afghanistan, including regional and international partners.
