India, Russia form 'permanent bilateral channel' for consulations on Afghanistan

The situation in Afghanistan is seen as a security challenge to both India and Russia.

New Delhi: In an important development, India and Russia have agreed to form a "permanent bilateral channel" for consultations on Afghanistan. The announcement of the bilateral channel has been the most visible practical cooperation between India & any of its allies on Afghanistan in the aftermath of the fall of Kabul to the Taliban since 15th August. The development was announced hours after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 45-minute telephonic conversation on Tuesday (August 24).    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.