Amid the novel coronavirus pandemic crisis across the globe, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the SAARC nations to chalk out strategy to fight it and set an example to the world.

In a series of tweets, Modi said, "Our planet is battling COVID-19. 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.

"I would like to propose that the leadership of the 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 said.

His remarks came amid the COVID-19 outbreak, which has hit the health as well as the markets globally. On Thursday, Modi and his British counterpart Boris Johnson in a phone conversation stressed the need to coordinate international efforts to contain the coronavirus pandemic.