Macron says Afghanistan must not again be 'sanctuary of terrorism'

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said that Afghanistan should not become again the "sanctuary of terrorism" that it was until the U.S.-led invasion two decades ago, after the Taliban regained control of the country.

"It is a challenge for peace and international stability, against a common enemy. We will do everything we can so that Russia, the United States and Europe can cooperate efficiently, because our interests are the same," Macron said in a televised address from his summer residence.

He also said the European Union would set up an initiative to thwart the large migrant flows now expected from the country, cracking down on illegal people smuggling rings that risk emerging.

(With input from AFP and Reuters)