In his first official visit, Minister of State for External Affairs M J Akbar will travel to Lebanon, Syria and Iraq from August 17-23 during which he will discuss with the West Asian leadership key security issues, including threat by the Islamic State and the 39 Indians who were taken hostage in war-hit Mosul.
This was announced by External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup, who said the visit to these three important countries in West Asia is a reaffirmation of Indias deep interest in promoting bilateral relations as also in the peace and security in the region in its extended neighbourhood.
The Spokesperson also said that the ministers visit will also give India an opportunity to have first-hand assessment of evolving security situation in that region.
Asked if the issue of Indians, who were taken hostage in war-hit Iraq by the Islamic State in 2014, will figure during ministers talk, Swarup said the issue has been always raised by India during its interaction with the leaders and other interlocutors. “It is but natural that it will be discussed during ministers visit,” he added.
From Agencies, Feature image courtesy www.india.com
