Attacks on Africans: Issue 'defused', says MEA

NEW DELHI: The External Affairs Ministry today claimed it has been successful in "defusing" the apprehensions of the African community in the wake of string of attacks on African nationals.

"We have, I think, been successful in defusing the issue that was building up," he said, listing steps to address concerns of African community while replying to a question on the issue.

He also referred to the "heart warming" and "positive" statement issued by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after meeting a group of African envoys and students on Tuesday, besides the sensitisation campaign carried out by her MoS V K Singh in Chattarpur in South Delhi.

"I appeal to fellow Indians. Next time you meet an African citizen, pl shake hand and say 'India loves you'," Swaraj tweeted.

The MEA Spokesperson said Singh will visit Bengaluru, Goa and cities where there is concentration of African nationals, to carry out the sensitisation campaign.

He said African envoys will be involved in identifying cities where African community has sizable presence.

Swaraj on Tuesday had announced a slew of steps including a country-wide sensitisation campaign after a meeting with African envoys and students.