Biden and Boris agree to hold G7 summit in response to Taliban takeover

US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have agreed to hold a virtual G7 summit on the unfolding situation in Afghanistan

This comes as world leaders react to the Taliban take-over and move swiftly to ensure the safe evacuation of diplomats and residents from the nation.

According to read outs from the White House and Downing Street, the leaders “discussed the need for continued close coordination among allies and democratic partners on Afghanistan policy going forward.”

The two agreed to have a virtual meeting with G7 leaders next week.

The joint statement reads:

President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke today regarding developments in Afghanistan. 

They commended the bravery and professionalism of their military and civilian personnel, who are working shoulder to shoulder in Kabul on the evacuation of their citizens and Afghan nationals who assisted in the war effort. 

They also discussed the need for continued close coordination among allies and democratic partners on Afghanistan policy going forward, including ways the global community can provide further humanitarian assistance and support for refugees and other vulnerable Afghans. 

They agreed to hold a virtual G7 leaders’ meeting next week to discuss a common strategy and approach.