Global terrorist network Al-Qaeda is opposed to India's reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan, a senior government official said on Thursday.
"India is associated with the stabilisation of peace and reconstruction works in Afghanistan. Al-Qaeda is opposed to India's efforts in that cworountry," said KC Singh, Additional Secretary in the External Affairs Ministry.
"Because of India's works in Afghanistan, Al-Qaeda is looking at India," he said, noting that three Indians had been killed in the war-ravaged country in the recent past.
"Al-Qaeda mentioned India in its public statement in 2006," Singh told reporters on the sidelines of a seminar here on "Bridging the gap between peacekeeping and peace-building".
He, however, asserted that India would continue its reconstruction and development efforts in Afghanistan.
His comments came as Delhi prepares to host a two-day conference from Saturday to discuss enhancement of cooperation in rebuilding Afghanistan.
The event will give impetus to the world community's efforts to substantially strengthen cooperation and partnerships with Afghanistan as that country endeavours to write a new chapter in its history — one of durable peace and sustainable development and prosperity, Singh said.
India is committed to contribute to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Afghanistan and has pledged 650 million dollars since 2001.
{{/usCountry}}India is committed to contribute to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Afghanistan and has pledged 650 million dollars since 2001.
{{/usCountry}}Of this, 645 million dollars has been committed for various projects.
Over the past four years, 220 million dollars has been utilised, he said.