Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has emhasised that India has a serious responsibility in the fight against terrorism. In a meeting with Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar, he urged India to help rebuild the Syrian economy, The Indian Express reported. "As a growing power, India has a role to play in meeting the challenge of terrorism," officials quoted Assad as saying, according to dna.

The ministers also agreed to boost security consultations between the two countries, an official said. This will include sharing intelligence as well as introducing a screening programme for Indians travelling to Syria.

Akbar's week-long visit to West Asia began on August 17. Following his meeting with the Syrian president on Saturday, he said the "age of destruction should give way to the age of reconstruction in Syria". They discussed a number of pending developmental projects, as well, including the Hama steel plant and the Tishreen power project. India will complete these projects once Damascus assures the safety of its workers.