Afghanistan discusses defense ties with India

NEW DELHI – Afghanistan's defense minister is holding talks with Indian officials about increasing defense cooperation as his country prepares to handle its own security by 2014.

Afghan Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak told reporters before Wednesday's talks that his country would welcome help from India.

A statement from India's Defense Ministry says bilateral cooperation and efforts to train Afghan security forces were likely to be discussed during the meeting.

India has been helping the Afghan government rebuild its police force, judiciary and diplomatic services.

Afghanistan's armed forces will take over the war-torn country's security by 2014 when U.S. and NATO troops leave Afghanistan. The United States plans to start withdrawing its troops in July.