New Delhi, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said that as a growing power, India has a role to play in meeting the challenge of terrorism.

During a meeting with Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar, Mr Assad made the assertion when the latter called on him yesterday during his Syria visit.

According to sources, "There was an agreement between both sides for further upgrading security consultations".

“During the meeting, Mr Assad also welcomed India's objective position on the conflict in Syria and both leaders acknowledged that terrorism was a global problem”, sources said.

Mr Assad also invited India to play an active role in the reconstruction of the Syrian economy.