Better relations between India and Pakistan are vital for the United States to succeed in its war against the Taliban in Afghanistan, according to US presidential hopeful Barack Obama.

"One of the things in the Afghan war is the importance of our efforts in Pakistan, which may include having a conversation with India," he said.

"We should see if we can lessen some tension between these two countries," the Illinois Senator said.

The border between Afghanistan and Pakistan makes it difficult for US troops to defeat the Taliban, who often escape by crossing the border.

"A lot of what drives, it appears, on the Pakistan side, still has to do with their concerns and suspicions about India," said Obama.

"We haven't had a conversation between Indians and the Pakistanis about how they can arrive at a more sensible arrangement," he said.

The Democratic Senator explained, "This could relieve some pressure and help us go after some of these forces along the border regions."