A statement from India's Defence Ministry says bilateral cooperation and efforts to train Afghan security forces were likely to be discussed during the meeting. - Reuters (File Photo)

NEW DELHI: Afghanistan's defence minister is holding talks with Indian officials about increasing defence cooperation as his country prepares to handle its own security by 2014.

Afghan Defence Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak told reporters before Wednesday's talks that his country would welcome help from India.

A statement from India's Defence Ministry says bilateral cooperation and efforts to train Afghan security forces were likely to be discussed during the meeting.

India has been helping the Afghan government rebuild its police force, judiciary and diplomatic services.

Afghanistan's armed forces will take over the war-torn country's security by 2014 when US and Nato troops leave Afghanistan. The United States plans to start withdrawing its troops in July.