India, Russia to form permanent channel for consultations on Afghan crisis after Modi-Putin talks

New Delhi, Aug 25: India and Russia agreed to set up a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on the issues arising in Afghanistan from the Taliban takeover of the country. The decision came following a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

 

During the exchange of views, "the parties noted the importance of concerted efforts which would contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in this country, ensuring security in the region as a whole. They agreed to establish a two-way channel for permanent consultations on this issue," the Russian Embassy statement said.

 

 

Both the leaders discussed the unfolding situation in Afghanistan and its implications for the region and the world. They expressed the view that it was important for the two strategic partners to work together and instructed their senior officials to remain in touch.

 

 

The two leaders also expressed intention to enhance cooperation on countering the dissemination of the terrorist ideology and the drug threat emanating from the territory of Afghanistan. A number of questions pertained to further development of the Russian-Indian relations of the special and privileged strategic partnership, including in trade and economy, were also touched upon. Both the leaders also discussed the schedule of future contacts at various levels.

 

PM Modi also tweeted after his conversation. "Had a detailed and useful exchange of views with my friend President Putin on recent developments in Afghanistan. We also discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including India-Russia cooperation against COVID-19. We agreed to continue close consultations on important issues," he said.

 

 

National Security Advisors from the five BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) met virtually to discuss developments in Afghanistan. On the agenda was cooperation among law enforcement agencies, health safety and healthcare and counter-terrorism.

 

PM Modi said that he looked forward to President Putin’s visit to India for the next Bilateral Summit. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch on bilateral and global issues, in particular, the situation in Afghanistan.