PM Modi discusses Afghanistan situation with his German counterpart Angela Merkel

New Delhi, Aug 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and discussed the escalating security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the region and the world.

 

The Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement that the two leaders held that the most urgent priority is the repatriation of stranded people. They also discussed bilateral issues, including cooperation in Covid-19 vaccines, development cooperation with a focus on climate and energy, and fostering trade and economic relations.

 

 

PM Modi tweeted, "Spoke to Chancellor Merkel this evening and discussed bilateral, multilateral and regional issues, including recent developments in Afghanistan. Reiterated our commitment to strengthening the India-Germany Strategic Partnership."

 

 

Further, the PMO statement said, "The leaders discussed the unfolding security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the region and the world. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and security, with the most urgent priority being the repatriation of stranded people."

 

 

The two leaders also exchanged views on issues of multilateral interest such as the forthcoming COP-26 meeting and the Indian initiative to promote a dialogue on maritime security at the UN Security Council, the statement said. Both the leaders emphasised the commonality of perspectives between both sides on promoting inclusive cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

Last week, PM Modi had held discussions on Afghan situation in a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and instructed all concerned officials to undertake all necessary measures on the current situation and on the evacuation of Indian nationals and vulnerable Afghans, especially the minorities.

 

 

"India must not only protect our citizens, but we must also provide refuge to those Sikh and Hindu minorities who want to come to India, and we must also provide all possible help to our Afghan brothers and sisters who are looking towards India for assistance," he had said.