Colombo, Aug 22 (TIWN) Sri Lanka has urged Indias assistance to evacuate nationals held up in Afghanistan after country was taken over by the Taliban.

The Foreign Ministry stated Sri Lanka was deeply concerned about the situation in Afghanistan and was closely monitoring the development.  "Our primary concern is the safety and security of Sri Lankans living in Afghanistan and evacuating them to safety or back to Sri Lanka," said the Foreign Ministry and requested the support of India, the US, the UK, Pakistan and the United Nations to evacuate Sri Lankans in Afghanistan. 

Out of 86 Sri Lankans 46 have already been evacuated and 20 more to be removed while 20 have opted to remain in Afghanistan under Taliban.  Sri Lanka welcomed amnesty offered and promise made by Taliban not to harm any foreigners, and urged the militant group which took over the country to honour its commitment.