The relationship between India and Pakistan is critical for regional stability and American success in Afghanistan, a top US commander said. "At this point I don't have insight into what our government is doing to try to work the very delicate relationship between Pakistan and India.

"I'm certainly aware that that is going to be critical to regional stability in the long term and our success in Afghanistan," General Joseph Dunford told lawmakers during his confirmation hearing yesterday.

Dunford has been nominated by the US President Barack Obama as the Commander of the US and NATO forces in Afghanistan.

If confirmed, he would replace, General John Allen.

"If confirmed I suspect that I'll be involved in that issue and have an opportunity to provide some military advice as our civilian leadership works through the diplomatic piece," he said responding to a question from Senator Mark Udall.

"But do you think there's any hope of engaging New Delhi and working towards a resolution of that relationship between Pakistan, Afghanistan and India in ways that might reassure Pakistan?" Udall had asked.