From correspondents in Kabul, Afghanistan, 02:00 AM IST

US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama Sunday met Afghan President Hamid Karzai and promised him long-term support for the war-ravaged country, if he wins the election.

Karzai and Barak exchanged views on ways to boost economic relations between Afghanistan and the US and on rebuilding of the country, a statement issued by Karzai's office here said.

Senator Obama arrived in Afghanistan Saturday at the head of three-member Senate delegation.

The Democratic presidential contender who criticized Afghan government weeks ago had promised additional troops to Afghanistan to bolster war on terror if he comes to power.

The statement added that the two delegations during the meeting noted that both the Democratic and the Republican parties have been supporting long-term presence of the US in Afghanistan.

Obama's itinerary also includes Iraq, Jordan, Israel and Germany.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)