Sheikh Hasina welcomes PM Modi's SAARC proposal over tackling coronavirus

" HPM Sheikh Hasina welcomes the proposal and look forward to a constructive dialogue with @narendramodi @ibusolih @PM_Nepal @PMBhutan @GotabayaR
n others HOSs/HOGs who already consented to discuss way forward at this testing time for the region and the world," State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam tweeted.

Eight countries form the SAARC. They are India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Maldives.

At a time when the world is witnessing major coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for SAARC nations to chalk out a strong strategy to fight the virus which is believed to have originated from China and then spread to different countries.

He further 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.

In a series of tweets, PM said that 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 also said that the Government is trying its best at various levels to combat COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus.

Modi tweeted: "Our planet is battling the COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. At various levels, governments and people are trying their best to combat it. South Asia, which is home to a significant number of the global population should leave no stone unturned to ensure our people are healthy."

In another tweet, he said, "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."

India recorded its first death from the virus on Thursday. The deceased was a 76-year old man from Karnataka.

Three people from Kerala have, however, recovered.