Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a prompt response from his counterparts in South Asia after he called for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) nations to chalk out a strong strategy to fight coronavirus.

Modi on Friday, through a series of tweets, suggested that these strategies could be discussed, via video conferencing; and, by coming together, Saarc nations can set an example to the world and contribute to a healthier planet.

“South Asia, which is home to a significant number of the global population should leave no stone unturned to ensure the health of its people,” he tweeted.

“I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus. We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy. Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet,” he added through another tweet.

Leaders of the Saarc countries responded to Modi’s call immediately. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka was the first to react. “Thank you for the great initiative Shri Narendra Modi, Sri Lanka is ready to join the discussion & share our learnings & best practices and to learn from other SAARC members. Let’s unite in solidarity during these trying times and keep our citizens safe,” he tweeted.

Nepal, which suspended all expeditions on Mount Everest Friday, also responded to PM Modi’s call instantly.

“I welcome the idea advanced by Prime Minister Modiji for chalking out a strong strategy by the leadership of the SAARC nations to fight Coronavirus. My government is ready to work closely with SAARC Member States to protect our citizens from this deadly disease,” tweeted Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

“Thank you PM Narendra Modi for taking the initiative on this important endeavor. Covid 19 requires collective effort to defeat it. Maldives welcomes this proposal and would fully support such a regional effort,” tweeted Ibrahim Mohamed Solih..