New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS): India has strongly condemned a terror attack on a luxury hotel in Kabul that claimed at least 18 lives.

"India strongly condemns the terrorist attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul on (Sunday)," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"We express our sincere condolences to the families of those killed in this heinous attack and wish speedy recovery to the injured," it stated.

In an obvious reference to Pakistan, the statement said reports that the attack was carried out by the Haqqani Network "are a matter of serious concern and bring to fore once again the need to effectively deal with safe havens and sanctuaries that these terrorists find in our shared neighbourhood".

At least 18 persons, including 14 foreigners, were killed in the attack. All five attackers were also killed.

"We commend the professionalism and bravery of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in saving the lives of hundreds of civilians from this gruesome attack," the Indian statement said.

"India stands in solidarity with the government and the people of Afghanistan in bringing the perpetrators of these terrorist attacks and their supporters to justice," it added.