US Intelligence chief holds discussions with Chidambaram

New Delhi, Mar 18 : Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday met United States National Intelligence Director Dennis C Blair and the US Ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer here, hours before alleged Lashkar operative David Headley is to plead guilty in a Chicago court.

Headley, who was alleged to have played a key role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror strike, is expected plead guilty before the court around midnight Indian Standard Time (IST).

Blair and Roemer reportedly discussed issues related to terrorism emanating from Afghanistan-Pakistan region with Chidambaram.

During the meeting, both envoys affirmed Washington's desire to cooperate with India in all areas, including the tackling of terrorism.

If Headley pleads guilty, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would file additional charges in connection with the 26/11-terror case.

Blair also met Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief Rajiv Mathur and discussed the threat scenario posed by terrorists and ways to counter them.

The two sides are understood to have also discussed issues of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

On Wednesday, Chidambaram said India should be given access to Headley for further interrogation.

"We understand there are a lot of legal processes to go through, but we have not given up the case. India must be given access to Headley for interrogation," Chidambaram said.