India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again reaffirmed India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict, following his third high-level engagement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in just three months. This recent interaction, held on the sidelines of the United Nations’ “Summit of the Future” in New York on September 24, highlights India’s increasingly active diplomatic role in global conflict resolution. The meeting came as both leaders were attending the landmark summit aimed at addressing urgent global issues, including ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while underscoring the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the conflict. As part of his ongoing diplomatic efforts, Modi assured Zelensky that India would continue to support initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in the war-torn region.

This meeting marks the third direct discussion between Modi and Zelensky within a short span of time, signifying the growing importance of Ukraine in India’s foreign policy. Their previous meetings took place in August 2023 during Modi’s visit to Kyiv, the first-ever by an Indian prime minister since Ukraine’s independence, and in June at the G7 summit in Italy’s Apulia region.

The latest engagement between the two leaders focused on deepening cooperation in areas agreed upon during Modi’s historic visit to Kyiv. These areas include trade and economic relations, defense cooperation, and post-war reconstruction. Zelensky and Modi also discussed collaborative efforts in education, science, and culture-fields that India views as essential in fostering long-term bilateral ties.

India’s growing interest in enhancing trade relations with Ukraine reflects the economic opportunities that both countries can explore once the war ends. As Ukraine looks to rebuild, Indian companies could play a pivotal role in sectors like infrastructure, technology, and energy, while Ukraine’s expertise in agriculture and defense could benefit India.

Prime Minister Modi’s stance on the Ukraine conflict has been consistent, calling for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy and dialogue. While India has maintained a neutral position, refraining from taking sides in the war, Modi’s commitment to supporting peace initiatives has been clear.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Modi expressed India’s determination to play a constructive role in facilitating an early resolution to the Ukraine conflict. He emphasized India’s readiness to provide support to all stakeholders involved in the process, reaffirming New Delhi’s clear, consistent, and constructive approach to the crisis.

“Met President @ZelenskyyUa in New York. 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 wrote on X.

His emphasis on diplomacy aligns with India’s longstanding policy of resolving international disputes through peaceful means, a principle embedded in the country’s foreign policy since its independence. As the war in Ukraine continues to impact global stability, particularly in terms of energy security and food supplies, India’s proactive diplomatic engagement underscores its desire to contribute to global peace and security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed gratitude to India for its support in safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In a statement published on Ukraine’s official website, Zelensky acknowledged India’s diplomatic efforts, particularly Modi’s historic visit to Kyiv and the discussions on strengthening bilateral ties.

“I am grateful for the clear support of our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Zelensky posted on X following the meeting. He added that their discussion focused on enhancing cooperation on international platforms such as the United Nations and the G20. Both leaders also reviewed the implementation of Ukraine’s “Peace Formula,” which seeks to end the war and pave the way for a second Peace Summit.

Zelensky’s appreciation of India’s efforts reflects the evolving nature of India-Ukraine relations. Despite India’s neutral stance, Zelensky recognizes the potential of India’s involvement in the post-war reconstruction phase, especially in areas like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

The talks between Modi and Zelensky emphasized the importance of multilateral engagement in addressing the Ukraine conflict. Both leaders discussed strengthening interaction on international platforms such as the United Nations and the G20, where India has played a crucial role in advocating for global peace and cooperation.

India, as a member of the G20 and a strong voice within the UN, has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Modi’s visit to New York to attend the “Summit of the Future” also provided a platform for him to underscore India’s commitment to addressing global challenges. His speech at the UN highlighted the need for collective efforts to resolve conflicts like the Ukraine war, which have far-reaching consequences for global peace, security, and economic stability.

The implementation of Ukraine’s Peace Formula, as discussed during the meeting, signals India’s willingness to support peace initiatives that promote dialogue and negotiation. Modi’s constructive approach echoes India’s broader vision of fostering diplomatic solutions to international disputes.

Modi’s visit to Kyiv in August 2023 was a landmark moment in India-Ukraine relations, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the country since it gained independence. The visit paved the way for deeper cooperation between the two nations, laying the groundwork for the discussions that took place in New York.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a briefing following the Modi-Zelensky meeting, highlighted the positive momentum in the bilateral relationship, noting that both sides are committed to maintaining close contact. Misri also revealed that the meeting was requested by the Ukrainian side, a sign of Kyiv’s recognition of India’s growing diplomatic influence on the global stage.

India’s engagement with Ukraine highlights the country’s expanding role as a mediator in global conflicts. As the world’s largest democracy and a rising global power, India has the diplomatic leverage to influence peace processes in regions like Ukraine. Modi’s recent meetings with Zelensky, coupled with his efforts at the G20 and UN platforms, signal India’s willingness to take on a more active role in international conflict resolution.

The New York meeting between Modi and Zelensky marks another chapter in India’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis. With both leaders committed to enhancing bilateral relations and supporting peace initiatives, India’s role in shaping the future of Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction and long-term stability is likely to grow further.

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