Saturday, January 28 2006 20:21 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: After expressing reservations to India's gas pipeline project with Iran, the US has 'strongly opposed' New Delhi's decision to invest in oil and gas projects in Syria and asked it reconsider it.

The US, in an Aide Memoire, cited two UN Security Council Resolutions 1636 and 1644 mandating complete cooperation by the Syrian Government with the UN probe into the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, while opposing Indian investment there, sources said here today (Jan 28,2006).

The note talked about the moves by the Indian companies, along with those of China, to invest $573 million (Rs 2,600 crore approximately) in Syrian oil and gas fields.

ONGC Videsh and China National Petroleum Company bought 37 per cent stakes in Al Furat oil and gas fields.

"We ask that you re-consider this decision to extend sucha significant amount of investment in Syria," the note said.

When contacted, US Embassy spokesman David Kennedy told sources that the American 'views were expressed as part of overall dialogue between the two countries witnessing growing and deepening relations.

"We make our position on various issues known. India makes its position known. It is part of very mature relationship. But ultimately, the Government of India makes its own decisions based on its interests," he said.

Kennedy said the US views on Syria were well known that the country is on the 'wrong side of history and Middle East. So there should be no economic cooperation with that country till it improves its behaviour.'