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Keep off Iraq: Indian envoy
"It is not a safe county for foreigners. It is best avoided given the situation here," said Indian Ambassador to Iraq BB Tyagi.
Indian Ambassador to Iraq BB Tyagi on Wednesday asked Indians to keep off Iraq, saying it is a "dangerous place."
"It is not a safe county for foreigners. It is best avoided given the situation here," Tyagi, relieved that the hostage drama involving three Indians ended after 42 days, said on telephone from Baghdad.
Tyagi, who had to cut short his home leave and return to the Iraqi capital after the three Indians were taken hostage by an Iraqi militant group on July 21, spoke about the long days and sleepless nights he and his limited staff spent to secure the release of the hostages.
"We worked day and night, putting a word here and there with whoever mattered and doing whatever was necessary. I am happy that our efforts have bore fruit."
The Indian government had also rushed Talmiz Ahmad, the Arabic-speaking envoy from Oman to Baghdad, to help in the efforts for the release of the hostages.
Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed, who announced the release of the hostage to the media here, put on record the government's appreciation of Tyagi and others.
"Our embassies in Baghdad and Kuwait, our ambassadors in these countries and Ambassador Talmiz Ahmad played a quiet but valuable supportive role, which enabled us to evaluate the changing situations on a continuous basis and take right decisions. They deserve our sincere appreciation."
Tygari said official and personal contacts with senior Iraqi officials, religious leaders and intellectuals helped considerably in ensuring that no harm came to the Indians.
"They were very helpful," he said.
He said following their release the Indians had already left Iraq for Kuwait, where they were expected to arrive later Wednesday.
They would arrive in India either Thursday morning or Friday, depending on flight availability.
He said the government's advisory against visiting Iraq had already begun to have effect.
"I have no figures but my assessment is that the advisory had taken effect. The Indian ambassador in Kuwait is also taking steps to ensure strict compliance with the advisory," he added.
He repeated: "It is necessary for our citizens in Kuwait and other neighbouring countries of Iraq not to enter Iraq. I cannot overemphasise the danger."
