News Brief
PM Modi
In a significant step in India's diplomatic engagements in Central and Eastern Europe, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (21 August) embarked on an official visit to Poland and Ukraine.
In his departure statement ahead of the visit, PM Modi said that India and Poland are marking 70 years of diplomatic relations.
He highlighted Poland's role as a key economic partner in Central Europe and emphasised the shared values of democracy and pluralism that bind the two countries.
"My visit to Poland comes as we mark 70 years of our diplomatic relations. Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe. Our mutual commitment to democracy and pluralism further reinforces our relationship," PM Modi said.
During his visit, PM Modi is scheduled to meet with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda to discuss furthering the partnership between the two nations.
Following his visit to Poland, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Ukraine at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine, which has been engaged in a war with Russia for over two years.
"I look forward to the opportunity to build upon earlier conversations with President Zelenskyy on strengthening bilateral cooperation and share perspectives on peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region," PM Modi said.
PM Modi expressed confidence that this visit would serve as a continuation of India's extensive diplomatic contacts with Poland and Ukraine, laying the foundation for stronger relations in the years to come.