G20 leaders discuss Afghanistan and counterterrorism efforts

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Leaders of G-20 countries discussed the situation in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, including critical need to maintain a laser-focus on counterterrorism efforts, ensure safe passage for foreign nationals still stuck in there.

Attended by leaders of G-20 countries, including PM Modi and US President Joe Biden, the group during the G-20 Extraordinary summit on Afghanistan held virtually also agreed to provide humanitarian assistance directly to Afghans through independent international organisations, the White House said.

The leaders discussed the critical need to maintain a laser-focus on our enduring counterterrorism efforts, including against threats from ISIS-K, and ensuring safe passage for those foreign nationals and Afghan partners with documentation seeking to depart Afghanistan," said White House, in a readout of Biden's meeting with G20 leaders.

The leaders affirmed their commitment to provide humanitarian assistance directly to Afghan people and to promoting fundamental human rights for all Afghans, including women, girls, and members of minority groups.

The White House said that US remains committed to working closely with the international community to address problems in Afghanistan. The US is also committed to using diplomatic, humanitarian, and economic means to address the situation there and support the Afghan people, it said.