PM Modi Tells Putin: India Stands for Peace, Not Neutrality on Ukraine Conflict
During the 23rd India-Russia summit, Modi emphasizes India’s commitment to peace efforts, while Putin reiterates Moscow’s pursuit of a peaceful resolution.
NEW DELHI, Dec 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed India’s support for peace initiatives in Ukraine, telling Russian President Vladimir Putin that the country stands firmly with efforts to end the ongoing conflict amicably. Speaking at the annual India-Russia summit, Modi stressed that India is “not neutral” and its stance is clearly on the side of peace.
“We all should find the path of peace. I am aware of the latest efforts and I am confident that the world will turn to peace. India is not neutral; India has a side and that side is peace. We support all peace efforts and we are standing shoulder-to-shoulder in all peace efforts,” Modi said in his televised opening remarks.
Putin, in response, highlighted that Moscow is actively pursuing a peaceful solution to the crisis. The Russian president was welcomed with a red-carpet ceremony at Palam airport on Thursday evening, marking his first visit to India in four years and his first since the outbreak of the Ukraine war in February 2022. Modi personally greeted Putin with a hug before the two leaders traveled together for a private dinner at the Prime Minister’s residence, setting the tone for substantive summit talks.
The 23rd India-Russia summit is expected to bolster defence cooperation, safeguard bilateral trade from external pressures, and explore collaboration in small modular nuclear reactors. Officials also anticipate agreements facilitating the movement of Indian workers to Russia and enhancing logistical support under the defence framework.
Trade discussions are likely to focus on increasing Indian exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food products, and consumer goods to Russia, addressing the current trade deficit, with India importing goods worth around USD 65 billion from Russia while exporting just USD 5 billion. Cooperation in the fertiliser sector and talks on a proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union are also on the agenda.
The visit assumes added significance amid cooling India-US ties, underscoring the strategic depth and resilience of the nearly eight decade long India-Russia partnership.
