‘Ukraine Conflict Must End Soon’: PM Modi in Key Bilateral Talks With Russian President Putin
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday urged for a swift end to the Ukraine conflict during a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China. While discussing pressing global issues, the two leaders reaffirmed the enduring strength of the India-Russia partnership.
“We have continuously been discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The conflict must be ended as soon as possible, and a path to lasting peace must be found quickly,” PM Modi stated, adding that he welcomes recent peace efforts and hopes all sides will move forward constructively. Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, Modi described their relationship as a “special and privileged strategic partnership” that has stood the test of time, contributing to global stability.
“Even in the toughest of circumstances, we have stood shoulder to shoulder,” he told Putin. In turn, the Russian President emphasized the “trustworthy relationship” between the countries, noting it is “not based on politics” but on multifaceted cooperation. The Prime Minister also extended a warm invitation to President Putin for the 23rd India-Russia Summit in December, saying, “One hundred and forty crore people are eagerly waiting for your visit.”
This high-level meeting comes as both nations navigate a challenging geopolitical landscape, particularly with the US imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods, partly as a penalty for its continued oil trade with Moscow.
