India will stand with Afghan people: PM Narendra Modi tells Ashraf Ghani

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today asserted that India would always stand with the people of Afghanistan notwithstanding the terror attack on Indian Consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif as President Ashraf Ghani called him up to brief him on the incident.

Ghani also strongly condemned the "cross-border" terrorist attack in Pathankot, an inference to Pakistan, and extended condolences at the loss of lives in it.

During the telephonic call, Ghani briefed Modi about the terrorist attack in Mazar-e-Sharif, a PMO statement said.

The Prime Minister expressed deep appreciation for the exemplary bravery and courage shown by the Afghan National Security Forces in thwarting the terrorist attack in Mazar-e-Sharif and ensuring security and safety of the Indian Consulate and personnel, the statement said.

"Prime Minister conveyed that India would always stand with the people of Afghanistan," it added.

The Afghan President also expressed support at the loss of lives and property in the earthquake in India.

The Prime Minister thanked President Ghani for his message of support at the cross border terrorist attacks and the earthquake.