Modi meets Afghan President, condemns terror attacks (Lead)

Astana June 9 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and strongly condemned the recent spate of terrorist attacks in Kabul and other parts of Afghanistan.

Modi expressed India s sincere condolences on the loss of hundreds of innocent lives and injuries to many more said an informed source.

The two leaders discussed the current situation in Afghanistan with specific reference to fighting terrorism and promoting peace stability and reconciliation there the source said.

Appreciating the sacrifices made by brave Afghan people Modi assured Ghani that the people of India stood by the friendly people of Afghanistan in resolutely and effectively addressing the challenge of terrorism imposed on that country.

According to the source both leaders agreed that India s entry into SCO as a full member would promote closer cooperation within SCO including on one of the main priorities of the group namely fighting terrorism.

Both India and Pakistan were on Friday granted full membership of the Eurasian bloc which also includes China Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Russia Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

Following the meeting Modi tweeted: Had a fruitful meeting with President @ashrafghani.

--IANS
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