Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s peace efforts in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, according to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
In a special briefing, Misri emphasized the appreciation Zelenskyy showed for India’s engagement, following Modi’s recent visit to Ukraine aimed at advancing peace talks.
This meeting, which took place in New York, marked the third in three months between the two leaders. Misri highlighted that the discussions covered both bilateral issues and matters related to the Ukraine conflict. Zelenskyy praised the attention India has given to the crisis and acknowledged Modi’s consistent efforts to find a peaceful resolution.
“President Zelenskyy was very appreciative of India’s attention to these issues and thanked the Prime Minister for the efforts he was making to find a pathway out of the conflict,” Misri said.
Misri said that both leaders also recognized the positive momentum in their bilateral relations and agreed to stay in close contact for further exchanges.
PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to facilitating peace, emphasizing that all parties involved agree on the need for a ceasefire and the restoration of stability. “The Prime Minister said that he has spoken with leaders from different countries, all of whom believe that a ceasefire must be reached,” Misri said. PM Modi has remained in close touch with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden since his visit to Ukraine, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also visiting Russia recently.
In his remarks, Misri echoed Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, stating, “There is no path to peace; peace is the path,” reflecting India’s firm belief in the pursuit of peace to end the conflict.
Zelenskyy in a post on X, said. “We are actively developing our relations and working together to strengthen cooperation across various fields,” the Ukrainian president said. He also highlighted their discussions on international cooperation, including at platforms such as the UN and G20, and on advancing the Peace Formula and the upcoming Peace Summit.
PM Modi also took to X to reaffirm India’s support for the early resolution of the conflict. “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,” Modi posted.
India has consistently advocated for practical engagement between all stakeholders, urging innovative solutions to bring about a swift and sustainable end to the conflict, which began in February 2022. The meeting between Modi and Zelenskyy underscores India’s continued involvement in international diplomatic efforts to bring peace to Ukraine.
(With inputs from ANI)