U.S. asks Delhi if it will help in Iraq

DELHI, India, July 10 (UPI) -- The U.S. ambassador to India sought clarification Saturday on India's Iraqi policy, particularly in view of the U.N.-mandated transition to democracy.

Ambassador David Mulford's request comes barely three days after New Delhi announced it would not send troops to Iraq, the Calcutta Telegraph reported.

"We have heard that India wanted to play a role in Iraq, particularly in its reconstruction. But it is not clear what kind of role it wants to play," Mulford said.

He expressed the hope New Delhi would review its approach as Iraq embarks on a path to democracy.

Mulford's request comes just before next week's official visit of U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage to Delhi.