Prime Minister telephoned President Karzai today to congratulate him on the successful conduct of the first round of the presidential elections in Afghanistan. PM also paid tribute to President Karzai's personal leadership and the courage, resolve and determination of the people of Afghanistan who had defied terrorism and violence and voted for a democratic and prosperous future for their country. President Karzai expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister and said that Afghanistan was grateful for the support and assistance that had consistently been extended to it by India. He added that the Afghan people regarded India as a true friend. PM said India would continue to stand by Afghanistan.