PM Modi directs preparation of contingency evacuation plans for Indians in Sudan

New Delhi, Apr 21 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to review the security situation in Sudan via video-conferencing, and directed the preparation of contingency evacuation plans for the over 3,000 Indian nationals living there.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Ambassador of India to Sudan and numerous other senior officials were present at the briefing, an official statement said. During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi assessed the most recent developments in Sudan and received a first-hand report of the conditions on the ground, with specific focus on the safety of over 3,000 Indian citizens presently located throughout the country.

The Prime Minister expressed his condolences on the passing away of an Indian national who tragically fell victim to a stray bullet last week.Prime Minister Modi instructed all relevant officials to remain vigilant, closely monitoring developments and continuously evaluating the safety of Indian nationals in Sudan and extending them all possible assistance.

The Prime Minister further directed the preparation of contingency evacuation plans, accounting for the rapidly shifting security landscape and the viability of various options.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication with neighboring countries in the region, as well as those with significant numbers of citizens in Sudan, the statement said.On Thursday, EAM Jaishankar met UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in New York and discussed the current developments in Sudan.

In a tweet, the EAM said that India strongly supports efforts towards an early ceasefire in Sudan, leading to the creation of safe corridors.“Good to meet UN Secretary General @antonioguterres in New York today afternoon.“Discussed the current developments in Sudan, G20 Presidency and Ukraine.“Focus understandably was on Sudan. India strongly supports efforts towards an early ceasefire, leading to creation of safe corridors. Will continue to work closely with UN and other partners in this regard.”

Guterres in his address at the UNSC said that the fighting between two factions in Sudan must stop immediately, and appealed for an Eid ceasefire to allow civilians trapped in conflict zones to escape.