Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described his recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York as “very good.” The bilateral talks took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session on Monday.
Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, Zelenskyy responded to a query about the meeting, reiterating his positive remarks. Both leaders discussed ongoing bilateral ties and expressed satisfaction with their continued consolidation. The conversation also focused on the situation in Ukraine and the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s consistent stance, advocating a peaceful resolution through diplomacy and dialogue. He assured Zelenskyy that India remains open to providing support within its means to help achieve a lasting peace.
This meeting marked the third encounter between the two leaders in just over three months. Prime Minister Modi had visited Ukraine on August 23, the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country since diplomatic relations were established in 1992. The leaders agreed to stay in close contact moving forward.
In a post on X, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and supporting an early resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.
“Met President @ZelenskyyUa in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability,” PM Modi said.
Since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began, India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. The country has expressed its willingness to contribute in all possible ways to facilitate a swift return to peace.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a briefing following PM Modi’s visit to the U.S., noted that Zelenskyy appreciated India’s efforts, including the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Ukraine.
“The discussions covered various bilateral matters as well as the Russia-Ukraine conflict. President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for India’s focus on these issues and thanked the Prime Minister for his efforts in promoting peace,” Misri said.
He added that the bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy was requested by the Ukrainian side. Misri also said that PM Modi has maintained dialogue with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval recently visiting Russia.
During their discussions, PM Modi reiterated his commitment to advocating for peace in conversations with various world leaders. Misri further quoted Mahatma Gandhi, saying, “There is no path to peace; peace is the path.”
Both leaders expressed optimism about the positive momentum in their bilateral relations and agreed to remain in close touch through further exchanges and visits at various levels.
“This is already the third bilateral meeting this year with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi @narendramodi. We are actively developing our relations and working together to strengthen cooperation across various fields,” Zelenskyy posted on X.
He emphasized the importance of their conversation on international cooperation, particularly at the UN and G20, and discussed steps toward implementing the Peace Formula and preparing for the second Peace Summit.
(ANI)