(Communicated by the Foreign Minister's Bureau)
Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tzipi Livni spoke this afternoon (Thursday, 27 November 2008) with Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Kumar Mukherjee. FM Livni condemned the violent attacks in Mumbai and was briefed by FM Mukherjee on the current situation. FM Livni offered the Indian government any assistance it might require to cope with the situation and its aftermath.
FM Livni also requested the assistance of FM Mukherjee, and the assistance of his Ministry, in the communication of any relevant information regarding developments in Mumbai to the Israeli authorities and assistance in the evacuation of Israelis from the terrorist attack sites if required.
"Israel, India and the rest of the free world are positioned in the forefront of the battle against terrorism and extremists. Unfortunately, we were harshly reminded of this once again yesterday. The struggle against terror must be a communal struggle, and compels us to improve our cooperation on this front. Israel is ready to assist India in any way possible."