Biden discussed focus on counterterrorism, rescue efforts in Afghanistan with G20 leaders

President Biden discussed counterterrorism and rescue efforts in Afghanistan in a virtual meeting with Group of 20 (G-20) leaders on Tuesday.

“The Leaders discussed the critical need to maintain a laser-focus on our enduring counterterrorism efforts, including against threats from ISIS-K, and ensuring safe passage for those foreign nationals and Afghan partners with documentation seeking to depart Afghanistan,” the White House said in a statement, referring to the Islamic State’s affiliate in Afghanistan.

The G-20 is made up of the world’s 20 major economies, including the U.S., China, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia and the European Union. Leaders of G-20 guest countries and international financial institutions also joined the call.

The leaders on the call discussed their commitment to humanitarian assistance for Afghans through independent international organizations and to promoting human rights for Afghans, including women, girls and minorities in the country.

“The United States remains committed to working closely with the international community and using diplomatic, humanitarian, and economic means to address the situation in Afghanistan and support the Afghan people,” the White House said. 

There are tens of thousands of Afghans who worked with the U.S. in some capacity over the past two decades still looking to leave the country. The Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden when he was a senator in 2008 reportedly escaped Afghanistan last week with the help of U.S. military veterans.