Modi, Macron discuss Afghanistan, share concerns over possible spread of terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday discussed regional issues including recent developments in Afghanistan.

The two leaders shared their concerns about possible spread of terrorism, narcotics, illicit weapons and human trafficking, as well as the need to ensure human rights, rights of women and minorities, the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.

Modi and Macron reviewed the increasing bilateral collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, and the important role that the India-France partnership plays in promoting stability and security in the region.  

During their telephonic conversation, the two leaders also agreed to maintain close and regular consultations, in the spirit of the India-France Strategic Partnership, which both countries cherish deeply, the PMO said.

Modi later took to Twitter and said: "Spoke with my friend President @EmmanuelMacron on the situation in Afghanistan. We also discussed closer collaboration between India and France in the Indo-Pacific."

"We place great value on our strategic partnership with France, including in the UNSC," he further said.