India is taking significant steps to engage in talks with both Russia and Ukraine, aiming to help end the ongoing conflict between the two nations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made this announcement during a recent event, marking India’s deeper involvement beyond just discussions over the past few years.
Jaishankar’s remarks came shortly after Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha mentioned that Ukraine has received ceasefire proposals from four nations, including one from India, which was described as the most thorough. This followed comments from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s valuable ideas for reaching mutually agreeable solutions.
During the Munich Leaders Meeting in New Delhi, Jaishankar shared some insights into India’s initiative, which emphasizes ensuring the safety of shipping in the Black Sea. This initiative also aims to facilitate grain and energy exports. He reiterated India’s commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic means.
“We have been advocating for peace for many years, and recently we have become more engaged,” Jaishankar said. He noted that India has held discussions with both Russia and Ukraine, focusing on the safety of shipping and addressing immediate concerns related to grain and energy exports.
Modi had previously met Putin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Kyrgyzstan and highlighted the need to transition from ongoing conflict to a peaceful resolution. The Ukraine situation was also a topic of discussion during Modi’s meeting with Putin at the Brics Summit in New Delhi. Furthermore, Modi had an encounter with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the G7 Summit in France in June.
In early September, Jaishankar visited Ukraine after Modi’s meeting with Putin, emphasizing that resolving the conflict through military means is not feasible and that India is ready to assist in peace efforts.
Jaishankar also touched upon India’s historically strong ties with Russia, which have developed since the 1950s. He noted that Russia has been a reliable partner for India, especially during difficult times when other countries supported military regimes in the region.
In addition to the political dimension, the relationship between India and Russia has expanded significantly, encompassing trade, military cooperation, and investments. Jaishankar pointed out that India’s engagement with Europe is also growing, with opportunities for collaboration in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, defense, and space.
Jaishankar highlighted the similarity between India’s and Europe’s views on artificial intelligence and the increasing openness of European countries to Indian talent. He emphasized the shared goals of India and the EU in promoting multilateralism, particularly through initiatives aimed at improving the United Nations.
Overall, India is actively pursuing a role in fostering peace while balancing its longstanding relationships with both Russia and European nations.
