'India Is Not Neutral, We Have Chosen The Side Of Peace': PM Modi On His Historic Ukraine Visit—Key Highlights

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (23 August) hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inaugural visit to Ukraine, marking it as a historic event since the country's independence.

The visit saw the signing of four key agreements between the two nations, spanning various sectors.

In a joint statement following the visit, the Ukrainian President noted the agreement on the development of a strategic partnership, bilateral trade, and continued military-technical cooperation.

"We also agreed on a joint statement focusing on the development of a strategic partnership, bilateral trade, and continued military-technical cooperation," Zelensky said.

Echoing these sentiments, PM Modi's office underscored the mutual resolve to deepen collaboration, particularly in upholding international law principles, including those enshrined in the UN Charter.

Both leaders recognized the need for enhanced bilateral dialogue in these regard.

Arriving in Kyiv by special train, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine since its 1991 independence.

In talks overshadowed by the ongoing conflict with Russia, Modi reiterated India's willingness to actively contribute to peace initiatives in Ukraine.

"We (India) are not neutral. From the very beginning, we have taken sides. And we have chosen the side of peace. We have come from the land of Buddha where there is no place for war," Modi said.

He emphasised India's historical commitment to peace, inspired by figures like Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi.

The two countries decided to task the Indian-Ukrainian Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) to explore avenues to not only restore but also enhance bilateral trade and economic relations, which have suffered considerably due to the ongoing conflict since 2022.

Modi briefed Zelensky on his recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, held in Samarkand in September 2022 and in Moscow last month.

He reiterated India's firm belief that war cannot resolve conflicts.

"Some time back, when I met President Putin in Samarkand, I had told him that this was not the era of war. Last month when I went to Russia, I said in clear words that a solution to any problem is never found on the battlefield," Modi stated.

PM Modi's visit to Kyiv is viewed by many as a delicate diplomatic balancing act, coming on the heels of his recent trip to Russia, which drew concern from some Western nations.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that Modi emphasised the importance of "practical engagement" among all involved parties to forge innovative solutions conducive to peace and stability.

Additionally, both leaders advocated for a comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, aiming to make it more representative and capable of addressing today's global challenges.

Ukraine reiterated its backing for India's bid for permanent membership in an expanded and reformed UN Security Council.

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