Congress condemns abduction of Indians in Iraq

New Delhi, June 19 (IANS) The Congress Thursday condemned the abduction of Indian workers in Iraq and appealed to international organisations and authorities concerned to ensure their safety.

"The Congress strongly condemns the abductions of Indian workers which has caused deep distress to the affected families," Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma told the media here.

"The party urges all international organisations active in the region and the concerned authorities to ensure the safety of abducted Indians," he said.

Sharma said the Congress was hopeful that ongoing diplomatic efforts to reach out to the concerned parties and interest groups would succeed in ensuring an early release of the Indian nationals.

"The government of India must intensify its efforts for evacuation and return of all Indian citizens from Iraq," he said.

Sharma appealed to the United Nations to make coordinated effort to normalise the situation in Iraq.

"The escalation of conflict has severely undermined the peace and stability in Iraq and the region. The United Nations and the government of Iraq and the countries of the region must make a coordinated effort to restore order and stability in Iraq," the Congress leader said.