Indian embassy in Kabul condemns terror attack

The Indian embassy in Kabul has strongly condemned the Taliban attack on the Park Palace Hotel in which four Indians were among the 14 people killed.

In a statement, the embassy on Thursday said it was grateful for the condolence messages from the Afghan leadership and also appreciated the Afghan security forces for their "valiant effort" to evacuate the civilians caught in the siege and for killing the gunmen in the attack.

Khaama Press agency quoted President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for good governance Ahmad Zia Massoud as telling reporters that the militants attacked the guest house thinking that Indian Ambassador Amar Sinha was present in the compound.

However, an Indian embassy source told IANS that the envoy was not present at the hotel when the attack took place.

The embassy said it stands in solidarity and sympathy with the bereaved families and the injured, and conveyed its "heart-felt condolences" to the people who lost their lives.

It said Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to President Ashraf Ghani and offered condolences on the loss of lives in the attack.

It expressed gratitude for the condolence offered by President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and former president Hamid Karzai to the families of Indians killed in the attack.

"The Afghan leaders appreciate the contributions of Indians who are working here for the socio-economic development of Afghanistan. The four brave Indians who lost their lives in the Park Palace attack will be remembered for their selfless contribution to friendship between our nations," it said.

"The Mission also appreciates the Afghan security forces for their valiant effort to evacuate the civilians from the hotel and for neutralizing the terrorist in yesterday's attack," the statement said.