New Delhi, Oct. 10 -- During the bilateral meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Friday, India expressed appreciation towards the invitation of Afghanistan for exploring mining opportunities in the country, noting that it can be discussed further.

In his remarks during the meeting held on Friday, Jaishankar touched several aspects of the Indo-Afghan ties ranging from development partnership to cricket.

"As a contiguous neighbour and a well-wisher of the Afghan people, India has a deep interest in your development and progress," the External Affairs Minister said.

He reaffirmed the longstanding partnership that has seen several Indian projects in Afghanistan which stands ...