India to participate in Russia-led meet on Afghanistan at "non-official level"

India on Thursday confirmed that its participation at the crucial meeting initiated by Russia on the conflict with Afghanistan will be at a "non-official level".

The meeting is scheduled for November 9.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Ravish Kumar said that New Delhi will continue to support all efforts for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

In response to a query regarding India's participation in the meeting, Kumar said, "We are aware that the Russian Federation is hosting a meeting in Moscow on 9 November on Afghanistan. Our participation at the meeting will be at the non-official level."

"India supports all efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan that will preserve unity and plurality, and bring security, stability, and prosperity to the country. India's consistent policy has been that such efforts should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the Government of Afghanistan," he added.

Russia has invited 12 countries and the Taliban, who are fighting to re-impose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster by U.S.-led troops.