“In wait and watch mode, evacuations in focus for now”, Centre tells political parties

New Delhi: Government on Thursday said it is in "wait and watch mode" and observing the developments in Afghanistan, as leaders of all parties were briefed about the situation. 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said after the briefing that government is in a wait and watch mode, and evacuations are the priority for now.

Thirty-seven leaders from 31 political parties attended the meeting.

The government made a presentation on the situation, and said it is in a wait and watch mode like rest of the world.

Talking to media after the meeting he said friendship that India shares with Afghanistan is valuable.

"Our strong friendship with the people of Afghanistan is reflected in the more than 500 projects we have there. This friendship will continue to guide us," he said.

He said evacuation is the main focus for now.

"Our immediate concern is evacuations," he said.

He added that government will be in a position to give a clearer picture as the situation develops.

All parties in the meeting lauded government's evacuation efforts.

The briefing comes after Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15, triggering major security concerns for India.

India evacuated many of its citizens from the war-torn country, and also some Afghan nationals.

Concerns have been raised on the spillover of terrorism from Afghanistan to India, and also on the humanitarian crisis in the neighbouring country. (UNI)