Shashi Tharoor lauds Sushma Swaraj's visit to Afghanistan

Appreciating External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's recent visit to Afghanistan, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Saturday said that the meeting gave out an extremely crucial political message and reflected India's priorities. "Sushma Swaraj has shown India's priority by meeting up top leaders in Afghanistan. This shows that India is not going to give up. We are neighbors, and we just can't let go of what is going in Afghanistan," Tharoor told ANI here.

"This political message is very important for both the countries. It is important to signal our support for a peaceful Afghanistan. I compliment the steps taken during Sushma Swaraj's visit to the country," he added. On her visit to Afghanistan on Wednesday, Sushma Swaraj met Afghan President Hamid Karzai, ahead of the declaration of the results of the disputed second round of presidential elections in the nation.

Swaraj and Karzai held talks on a wide range of issues, including the political and security situation in the country, which has been ravaged by war in recent times. She also met Afghan Foreign Minister Zarar Ahmad.

Swaraj also inaugurated the new building of the Indian embassy in Kabul, which features an integrated security system. Built at a cost of USD 40 million, the building spreads over five acres and is located close to the Afghan Foreign Ministry.