Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. During their discussions, PM Modi delivered a clear message regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating, "We must move away from endless war towards an end to the war."
Modi emphasized India's unwavering commitment to peace, highlighting that the nation has consistently engaged with President Putin on the Ukraine conflict and will continue to support all endeavors aimed at a peaceful resolution. "Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm," Modi remarked.
India's Stance on Peace
The Prime Minister reiterated that a swift and peaceful resolution to all issues is essential for global well-being, reflecting India's core message. He invoked the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Buddha, stating that the "land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message: the path of peace." This underscores India's deeply rooted philosophical approach to conflict resolution.
Expanding India-Russia Cooperation
Beyond discussions on the Ukraine conflict, PM Modi also acknowledged the growing partnership between India and Russia. He referenced President Putin's successful visit to India the previous year, expressing satisfaction with the continuous expansion of bilateral cooperation. Modi noted that both nations prioritize national interest, a shared principle guiding their collaborative efforts for the welfare of their respective populations.
"Moving forward with national interest as the paramount priority has been our shared approach, and this will remain our guiding principle in the future as well," Modi stated.
Putin Hails Partnership
In response, President Putin affirmed the strength of Russia-India relations, describing them as a "special and privileged partnership." He commended Prime Minister Modi's personal attention to fostering these ties, acknowledging the robust business and friendly relations that have developed between the two leaders and their countries.