In a recent telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The official release stated that Modi reiterated India’s stance on peaceful resolution and highlighted the need for concerted efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
During the conversation, Modi and Putin reviewed the progress in various bilateral cooperation issues and exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest. They expressed their commitment to enhancing the Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia in the years ahead.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Modi reaffirmed India’s consistent support for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward. Both leaders agreed to maintain communication on the matter, underscoring the importance of ongoing discussions amidst the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin shared details of Putin’s conversation with Modi, highlighting Putin’s assessment of the situation in Ukraine. Putin emphasized Ukraine’s reluctance to engage in political and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, stressing the need for constructive dialogue.
In connection with recent events, Modi expressed understanding and support for Russia’s efforts to maintain law and order and ensure stability within its borders. This support comes in light of a rebellion led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of the Wagner Group, on June 24, 2023, which was subsequently quelled with intervention from Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.
The leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation and expressed satisfaction over the increase in trade between India and Russia. They underscored the importance of implementing joint projects across various sectors and highlighted their cooperation within international forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, G20, and BRICS.
Modi informed Putin about his recent international engagements, including a visit to Washington, and reiterated their mutual desire to strengthen the specially privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia. The conversation was described as substantive and constructive, with both leaders affirming their commitment to future engagements.
Modi’s previous advice to Putin on the Ukraine war, delivered during a bilateral meeting at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand in 2022, garnered international attention. The Indian Prime Minister emphasized the importance of peace over war and discussed concerns about food, energy security, and the evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine.
International media, including CNN, praised Modi’s diplomatic approach, highlighting his efforts to engage with Russia in a friendly manner while advocating for global peace. Modi’s consistent stance on dialogue and diplomacy amidst the Ukraine crisis reflects India’s commitment to peaceful resolution and international cooperation.
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