Blood and tears are going to be our lot, whether we like them or not. Our blood and tears will flow; maybe the parched soil of India needs them so that the fine flower of freedom may grow again.

We live in an inter-dependent world. An isolated India is not in our interest.

India is located at Asia's crossroads. And, we will assume our responsibility to build an inter-connected Asia. Asia of rivalries will hold us back. Asia of unity will shape the world.

The closeness of the India-Afghanistan relationship is not a new phenomenon. It has existed since time immemorial. And as a close friend, ever since India's Independence, we have done and will continue to do whatever is required to be done to see Afghanistan grow and progress as a close friend.

India has always wanted friendly ties with its neighbours, there can be no debate around it. We want to live in harmony and peace.

Relations between India and America should not be seen within the limits of just Delhi and Washington. It's a much larger sphere. The good thing is that the mood of both Delhi and Washington is in harmony with this understanding. Both sides have played a role in this.