Concerned at situation in Afghanistan, says Putin

KABUL (Pajhwok): Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have discussed the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan.

At his meeting with Modi in New Delhi on Monday, Putin said: “The fight against terrorism is also a fight against drug trafficking and organised crime.”

In his introductory remarks aired by Indian media, the visiting president said: “In this regard, we are concerned about developing situation in Afghanistan.”

Also on Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said a deal to supply India with S-400 air defence missile systems was being implemented despite US efforts to undermine the accord.

At the 21st India- Russia Annual Summit, Putin remarked: “We cannot but worry about the situation and how it is developing in Afghanistan.”

He hailed India as a great power, a friendly nation and a time-tested friend. “Relations between our nations are growing and I am looking into the future.”

PAN Monitor/mud