Tuesday, August 8 2006 10:08 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Three letters written by K Natwar Singh to Iraqi Oil Minister Amer Mohammed Rasheed in 2001 formed the basis on which Justice R S Pathak held that the former External Affairs Minister lend his assistance in the procurement of oil allocation to Delhi-based businessman Andaleeb Sehgal.

The first one dated January 30, 2001 said, "Excellency, I am sending this letter with Andaleeb Sehgal. He was present when I called on you on January 22, 2001 at your office in Baghdad. He is well known to me for many years and so is the company he owns. He enjoys my full support and confidence, and I would appreciate you giving him your full assistance and cooperation."

May I take this opportunity to thank you for receiving me and giving me so much of your time out of your busy schedule.

I greatly valued our discussions on Indo-Iraq relations and wider issues of importance to both our parties and countries. The Congress Party greatly values its fraternal links with the Arab Ba'ath Socialist Party. I believe that these links have been further intensified during our stay in Baghdad.

We have returned full of admiration for your stouthearted people.

With regards, Yours sincerely, (K Natwar Singh).