In a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently held discussions centered on the ongoing Ukraine war and its profound impact on global food and energy security, particularly for the Global South. The meeting, which took place during Modi’s visit to Poland, highlighted the pressing concerns shared by both leaders over the conflict’s repercussions and the broader implications for international stability.
Call for Peace and Diplomacy
During the talks, Prime Minister Modi reiterated a message he had conveyed to Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow in July. Modi emphasized that no problem could be effectively resolved on the battlefield, advocating instead for peaceful dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable paths to lasting peace. This message, which has been consistent in India’s approach to the conflict, underscores the nation’s commitment to playing a constructive role in promoting global stability.
Both leaders expressed deep concern over the negative impacts of the Ukraine war on food and energy security. They noted that the conflict has exacerbated vulnerabilities, especially in the Global South, where disruptions in grain supplies and energy resources have had severe consequences. Modi and Tusk condemned the war’s destabilizing effects and stressed the importance of upholding international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
“They underscored the importance of upholding international law, and in line with the UN Charter, reiterated that all states must refrain from the threat of or use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state,” said a joint statement issued after the meeting.
Poland’s View on India’s Role
Prime Minister Tusk described Modi’s recent visit to Ukraine as “historic,” expressing Poland’s belief that India could play an essential and constructive role in bringing the conflict to an end. Tusk acknowledged India’s diplomatic stance and highlighted Modi’s willingness to contribute to a peaceful resolution. “PM Modi confirmed his willingness that he is ready for a peaceful, rightful, and immediate end to the war,” Tusk remarked.
Following his engagements in Warsaw, Modi traveled to the Polish-Ukrainian border, undertaking a 10-hour overnight train journey to Kyiv. This marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine, a gesture of solidarity that has been met with significant international attention. During his 7-8 hour visit to Kyiv, Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and engage with the Indian community, including students, who have been impacted by the ongoing conflict.
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India’s Stance on Peace Efforts
India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the means to achieve an early return to peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Modi is expected to reiterate this position during his meeting with President Zelensky, offering India’s support for any peace initiative that includes all relevant stakeholders, including Russia. However, while India has expressed its willingness to mediate if requested, it has refrained from initiating any formal peace proposals on its own.
The Indian government has maintained that Russia’s involvement is crucial for any enduring peace settlement. This stance reflects India’s balanced approach, which seeks to avoid taking sides while advocating for a peaceful resolution. Zelensky, on his part, is expected to emphasize his 10-point peace plan, which calls for the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine and accountability for war crimes. However, it remains unlikely that Modi will endorse this plan outright, given India’s emphasis on inclusive dialogue.
A Message of Peace in Warsaw
Prime Minister Modi also addressed the Indian community in Warsaw, reiterating India’s commitment to peace. Drawing on India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, Modi invoked the legacy of Lord Buddha, emphasizing that India has always been a proponent of peace and non-violence. He reiterated that “this is not an era of war” and called for unity in tackling the greatest challenges facing humanity.
“India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. India’s concept is clear: this is not an era of war, and it is the time to unite to tackle the biggest challenges of humanity. Thus, India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict,” Modi stated.
As the Ukraine conflict continues to pose significant challenges to global security, India’s role as a potential mediator and advocate for peace becomes increasingly vital. Modi’s discussions with Tusk and his historic visit to Ukraine underscore India’s ongoing efforts to contribute to a peaceful resolution, reflecting the country’s long-standing principles of non-violence and diplomacy.
