PM Modi: India Not Neutral, Stands for Peace During Historic Ukraine Visit

Post by: MANISH KUMAR

Photo : PTI

In a landmark visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi traveled to Kyiv, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The visit, which took place amidst ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, was met with significant attention and marked by several key developments in the bilateral relationship.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the visit as a historic moment for Ukraine. During their talks, Modi and Zelensky focused on elevating their bilateral relationship from a comprehensive partnership to a strategic partnership. They signed four documents spanning various fields, highlighting their commitment to expanding cooperation.

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According to President Zelensky, a joint statement was agreed upon, emphasizing the development of a strategic partnership, enhancing bilateral trade, and continuing military-technical cooperation. Both leaders expressed their readiness to uphold international law principles, including the respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, as outlined in the UN Charter. They also underscored the importance of maintaining a closer dialogue on these issues.

PM Modi's visit was conducted under the shadow of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In his remarks, Modi emphasized India's stance on peace, stating, "We (India) are not neutral. From the very beginning, we have taken sides. And we have chosen the side of peace. We have come from the land of Buddha where there is no place for war." He further referenced Mahatma Gandhi's message of peace, reinforcing India's position on the global stage.

The two leaders agreed to instruct the Indian-Ukrainian Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) to explore all avenues to restore and expand bilateral trade and economic relations, which have been significantly impacted by the conflict. Modi also updated Zelensky on his recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he emphasized that war is not the solution to global problems. Modi had previously voiced this sentiment during meetings with Putin in Samarkand in September 2022 and Moscow last month.

The visit is seen as a diplomatic balancing act, given Modi's previous trip to Russia, which had drawn criticism from some Western nations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that Modi reiterated the need for "practical engagement" among all stakeholders to devise a solution that promotes peace and stability.

Both leaders also called for a comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to make it more representative, effective, and efficient in addressing international peace and security issues. Ukraine reaffirmed its support for India's permanent membership on a reformed and expanded UN Security Council.

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