ASTANA: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Astana, where he expressed strong concerns regarding the safety of Indian nationals in the Russia-Ukraine war zone and urged for their swift and safe return.

In a statement shared on X, Jaishankar highlighted that the discussions between the two sides encompassed a wide range of topics, including bilateral relations and current global issues.

"It was productive to meet with Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. We discussed various aspects of our bilateral partnership and current global issues. We acknowledged the progress made in several areas since our last meeting in December 2023," Jaishankar stated.

"We raised serious concerns about the welfare of Indian nationals currently in the war zone and emphasized the need for their prompt and safe return. Additionally, we exchanged views on the global strategic landscape," he added.

Earlier this month, on June 11, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that two Indian nationals, recruited by the Russian Army, lost their lives in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. India has actively engaged with Russia to facilitate the early release and repatriation of all Indian nationals involved with the Russian Army.

India has also urged for a verified halt to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, emphasizing that such activities could undermine the bilateral partnership.

Jaishankar is currently in Astana leading the Indian delegation at the SCO Summit.

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