New Delhi: Terming infiltration of ISIS in Afghanistan a “new threat” that was “very alarming”, Iran today sought India's cooperation in tackling the menace which it said was used by some countries in the region for “tactical gains”.
Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Sharif, who arrived here last night, discussed the issue of terrorism and extremism during a series of meeting with top leadership including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.
“We have a new threat in Afghanistan and that is infiltration of ISIS there. Everybody has to take note of it. It is a very alarming threat and we need to work together. There is need for all of us—Iran, India and Pakistan and all of us to work together and Iran can play good role in bringing these countries together.
“We did discuss it (during my meetings today),” Zarif told reporters when asked about the discussions on situation in Afghanistan.
Asked about his reaction to Indian request made by Sawarj for an early release of Indian prisoners there, he said Iran was always ready to help in humanitarian issues. “We will do whatever we can,” he added, without giving a direct assurance in the matter.
Without naming any country, Zafri said, “Some of our friends in the region see ISIS for tactical gains.” He also said the extremist forces take advantage of “gaps between the countries” to finance and equip themselves.
He also praised India for standing with Iran in “difficult times” of sanctions imposed by the Western countries and said it was ready to work with India in every sphere including trade and investments.
There is a huge potential for economic cooperation between the two countries, he added. He also described as “manufactured crisis” the situation created by West by imposing sanctions.
