India has condemned the string of attacks that have taken place in the black sea region in the last one or two days. Briefing media in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that such attacks threaten commercial shipping and endangers the lives of seafaring communities. He added that a commercial vesel MV Royad Mammadov came under attack while it was plying in the black sea, there were three Indian nationals on-board and all of them are safe but one of them got injured and is receiving medical treatment. The second ship, a togo flagged ship, Alfa Watanalso came under attack yesterday. He said, India once again reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy to reduce the tensions and enable early return of peace to the region.
On the health condition of Captain Smit Machchhar, MEA Spokesperson informed that he is s in the hospital in Abu Dhabi and Indian Embassy in the UAE has been in regular touch with him, with his family as well as local authorities and with the hospital authorities. He said, Captain Machchhar is recuperating well and his health is improving.
On Indian nationals in the Russian army, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiwal said that India continues to follow up with the Russian side for the release of the remaining Indian nationals with the Russian army. He added that as per information available, 259 Indian nationals are believed to have been recruited into the Russian armed forces. Out of these, India’s efforts have resulted in early discharge of 139 Indian nationals. He added that the country has been following up with the Russian authorities for updates on the whereabouts of 69 Indian nationals who remain with the Russian army. He said,the Government of India has once again urged the Indian nationals to stay away from the offers being made to join the Russion Army.
On the Russia-Ukraine conflict ,Mr Jaiswal said that India has consistently maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward. He said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on multiple occasions has expressed that this is not an era of war and no solution lies in the battle field.
This is a news report by Akashvani News (All India Radio), reproduced as issued.
