By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the end of the 23rd India – Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi on Friday reiterated India’s support for an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Global issues also featured prominently in the talks with President Putin. I reiterated India’s strong commitment to peace and to finding a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in Ukraine. We emphasized the need to jointly combat the menace of terrorism. We also agreed to keep working closely in various multilateral forums.”
“Today’s 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit was an opportunity to comprehensively discuss diverse aspects of India-Russia cooperation. We have agreed on an Economic Cooperation Programme till 2030 in order to diversify our trade and investment linkages. We talked about improving connectivity, enhancing relations in shipbuilding, skills, energy, critical minerals and much more,” the Prime Minister said in another post on X.
During the joint press statement delivered with President Putin, PM Modi said, “Today we also discussed regional and global issues. Since the beginning, India has consistently advocated for peace, with regards to the situation in Ukraine. We welcome all efforts being made for a peaceful and lasting resolution in this matter. India has always been, and will always be ready to contribute.”
Putin said that yesterday evening he briefed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation surrounding the settlement in Ukraine, as well as on the dialogue with the United States regarding the issue.
“Yesterday evening, we had an opportunity to discuss in detail the developments in Ukraine and our efforts, together with some other partners, including the United States, to find a peaceful resolution to this crisis,” Putin said during official talks with Modi within the programme of his state visit to India.
Mr. Putin thanked the Indian prime minister for the invitation, as well as “for yesterday’s very pleasant evening and for the friendly yet meaningful and useful discussions.”
