"The two sides discussed the importance of cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Australia. Mr. Houston expressed his country's support for the transition of security responsibilities, capacity building of state institutions and the peace process," the Afghan foreign ministry said in a statement.

　　The discussions also involved the issue of human smuggling, the statement said, adding the two sides discussed "the illegal immigration of some Afghan citizens who risk their lives by giving themselves to human smugglers. The two sides expressed concern over the horrific consequences of such immigration and considered the drowning of Afghans in Australian waters as tragic."

　　Calling human smuggling a major problem and termed it as a painful reality, Ludin said that some Afghan citizens are encouraged by the smugglers to illegally migrate to foreign countries which end with tragic consequences.

　　Transition of security responsibilities from NATO and U.S. forces to Afghan troops began in 2011 and lasts till 2014. Afghan army and police have already taken full control of areas where 75 percent of population lives.

　　More than 1,000 Australian forces have been serving within the framework of the NATO-led coalition troops in Afghanistan.