M J Akbar to travel to Syria, Iraq; will discuss IS threat, Indian hostages

August 11, 2016 18:39

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 India's 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 minister's visit will also give India an opportunity to have first-hand assessment of evolving security situation in that region.

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