India Joins Global Meet on Ukraine After PM Modi Calls for Dialogue and Diplomacy
16.06.2024: India is actively participating in global efforts to address the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, India dispatched a senior official to Switzerland for the two-day Summit on Peace in Ukraine, which commenced on Saturday.
India’s Participation
Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, arrived in Burgenstock, central Switzerland, to engage in discussions at the conference hosted by Switzerland President Viola Amherd. The summit began following a significant agreement by G7 leaders in Italy to provide a $50 billion loan to support Ukraine, utilizing interest from Russia’s frozen central bank assets as collateral.
Key Topics and Statements
In her opening remarks, President Amherd highlighted three main discussion points: nuclear safety, food security, and the humanitarian dimension. Alongside President Zelenskyy, she stressed the importance of global experiences and contributions in shaping the peace process.
President Zelenskyy, describing the war as “unprovoked,” acknowledged the unprecedented representation at the summit from all continents, reflecting the global commitment to peace. He emphasized the importance of the ideas and leadership of each participating nation in the peacemaking process and the restoration of the UN Charter.
Summit Context and Global Responses
The Russia-Ukraine war, ongoing since February 24, 2022, has seen no resolution in sight. With about 100 delegations, including 57 heads of state and government, attending the summit, the global community is actively seeking a peaceful solution. While Russia is not participating, the US is represented by Vice President Kamala Harris.
On the eve of the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated Russia’s demands, including Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and ceding four provinces to Russia. These conditions were swiftly rejected by Kyiv.
India’s Diplomatic Stance
Prime Minister Modi, during his meeting with President Zelenskyy, reaffirmed India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. Modi expressed India’s eagerness to strengthen bilateral relations and support Ukraine’s efforts in various sectors, including agriculture and technology.
India has maintained a balanced diplomatic approach, holding strategic ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. Since the conflict began, India has provided significant humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and continues to engage in diplomatic efforts to support peace initiatives.
India’s active participation in the Summit on Peace in Ukraine underscores its commitment to global peacemaking efforts. As discussions progress, the international community looks forward to collaborative strategies to end the conflict and restore stability in the region.