NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today had a detailed discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the situation developing in Afghanistan after it was captured by the Taliban insurgents pushing the country to the brink of chaos and unrest.

PM Modi himself announced the interaction on the microblogging site Tweeter. He tweeted, "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."

According to a release from the PMO, "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."

As the Taliban took over most of the provinces of Afghanistan, India decided to evacuate its diplomatic mission from the country and began evacuating nearly 200 of its mission staff. Russia has however not yet shut its embassy in Kabul.

On August 17 an Indian air force plane evacuated about 170 people from Kabul, including India’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Rudrendra Tandon and landed in Jamnagar Gujarat en route to Delhi. Since then India has evacuated close to 800 of its citizens.  

Yesterday Modi Tweeted that he had spoken to German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the same issue. "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," Modi tweeted from his personal handle.