Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday, preceding a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This was their second such call this month.
PM Modi expressed his thanks to Zelenskyy for the call and reiterated India’s commitment to supporting peace between Russia and Ukraine.
On social media, Modi stated, “We exchanged views on the ongoing conflict, its humanitarian aspect, and efforts to restore peace and stability. India extends full support to all efforts in this direction.”
The call occurred the day before Modi’s meeting with Putin at the SCO summit in China. Modi and Zelenskyy previously spoke on August 11.
President Zelenskyy shared his views on recent developments in the Ukraine conflict. The Prime Minister’s Office stated, “The Prime Minister thanked President Zelenskyy and reaffirmed India’s firm and consistent stance on a peaceful resolution of the conflict and efforts to restore peace soon. The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to provide all possible cooperation in this regard.”
Modi and Zelenskyy also reviewed progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership. They discussed ways to “further enhance cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.” They agreed to stay in contact.
Zelenskyy said that he informed about his talks with President Trump in Washington. He noted that it was a productive and important conversation. Ukraine is ready to meet with Russia’s leader.
Zelenskyy added that Ukraine is coordinating its position before the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. He stressed the need to end the war with an immediate ceasefire and lasting peace, a position everyone supports. He mentioned that it is impossible to have meaningful peace talks while cities are constantly under attack. India is ready to make efforts and signal its position to Russia and other leaders during the summit. They also discussed their bilateral relations, planned visits, and the organization of a joint inter-governmental commission meeting.