S Jaishankar Meets Sergey Lavrov in Astana

Discussion on Indian Nationals in War Zone

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Astana during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Council meeting. Jaishankar raised strong concerns about Indian nationals currently in the war zone in Russia.

Jaishankar shared on X, “Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide-ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023. Raised our strong concern on Indian nationals who are currently in the war zone. Pressed for their safe and expeditious return.”

Both leaders also discussed the global strategic landscape and exchanged views. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier reported that two Indian nationals recruited by the Russian Army were killed in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The MEA is working with Russian authorities for the early release and return of all Indian nationals with the Russian Army.

The MEA has urged Indian nationals to exercise caution while seeking employment opportunities in Russia. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India is in constant touch with Russian authorities to secure the release of Indian nationals as soon as possible.