Press Release

Visit of Foreign Secretary to Kabul following terrorist attack on Indian Embassy

10/10/2009

Following the heinous terrorist attack targeting the Indian Embassy in Kabul, Foreign Secretary visited Afghanistan on October 9-10, 2009. While inspecting the Chancery premises and its surrounding areas, she was able to make an on the spot assessment of the devastation caused by the blast. She met the officers and staff of the Embassy, including the members of the ITBP contingent, two of whom sustained shrapnel injuries, and complimented their bravery, resoluteness and dedication for working unflinchingly under such trying circumstances. She assured them that the Government will take all possible measures to ensure their safety, security and welfare.

Foreign Secretary also extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of those Afghan nationals who lost their lives in this cowardly attack, particularly to the families of the two Afghan security personnel who died during the attack and whose presence of mind and alertness prevented what could have been a far greater tragedy.

She expressed her deep concern and revulsion over the barbaric and cowardly attack that claimed so many innocent lives and was so clearly aimed against the people of India and the people of Afghanistan and their abiding friendship. “The attack was clearly the handiwork of those who are desperate to undermine Indo-Afghan friendship and do not believe in a strong, democratic and pluralistic Afghanistan”, the Foreign Secretary said. She added that “The international community and indeed the people of Afghanistan face a clear and present danger from the perpetrators of such wanton acts of terrorism and their patrons residing across the border.” While condemning the terrorist attack on the Indian embassy, it was emphasized by the Foreign Secretary, on behalf of the Government of India, that the scourge of terrorism must be resolutely opposed, resisted and overcome through undiluted commitment and effort by the international community.

During her visit, Foreign Secretary met President Hamid Karzai, Foreign Minister Dafdar Rangeen Spanta and National Security Advisor Zalmai Rassoul, who conveyed their deep sorrow over the attack on the Indian Embassy and assured her that the Government of Afghanistan would do all in its power to expeditiously investigate the dastardly attack and bring to justice the perpetrators and those behind this attack. They were unanimous in their view that the attack was carried out by elements from outside Afghanistan seeking to damage the excellent relations that exist between India and Afghanistan. Foreign Secretary reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to pursuing our bilateral development partnership and assisting the people of Afghanistan in realizing a democratic, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.

New Delhi
October 10, 2009