India has reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating peace between Russia and Ukraine, reiterating its support for any feasible and mutually acceptable solution that could help end the ongoing conflict. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized this stance during a press briefing on Friday, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating that India is prepared to assist in peace talks, but the initiation of such discussions remains the prerogative of the warring parties.
Jaiswal highlighted India's role as a friend and partner to both nations, indicating that New Delhi would back any peace process that could lead to a sustainable resolution. "The decision as to when and how to commence peace talks is the prerogative of the two parties to the conflict. As friends and partners, we would support any feasible and mutually acceptable solution or format that could restore peace," he said.
This statement follows closely on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During the visit, Modi reiterated India's longstanding position that dialogue is the only viable path to lasting peace. He assured Zelenskyy of India’s willingness to play a constructive role in the peace process if required.
Addressing Concerns of Indians in Russia
In addition to discussing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the MEA provided updates on Indian nationals in Russia. Jaiswal confirmed that 15 Indians who were stuck in Russia have been released and safely returned to India. He added that the Indian Embassy remains in close contact with Russian authorities to facilitate the release of others who wish to return.
"We have an update as of now, as of today, we have 15 Indians who have been released and they have returned to India. There are others who are waiting for discharge. Our mission, our embassy, is in touch with Russian authorities, and we hope that those who want to return back to India will be released soon," Jaiswal stated.
India's Constructive Engagement Strategy
The MEA spokesperson also emphasized India's approach to the conflict, which focuses on constructive, solution-oriented, and practical engagement with all stakeholders. This strategy is part of India’s broader effort to achieve a negotiated settlement between Russia and Ukraine.
"India has always advocated constructive, solution-oriented, and practical engagement with all stakeholders to achieve a negotiated settlement to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine," Jaiswal said. He underscored that India's outreach to both Russia and Ukraine at the highest levels reflects its commitment to finding a peaceful resolution.
However, Jaiswal was cautious about discussing the specific modalities of peace talks, noting that it is too early to comment on the potential pathways for negotiation. He reiterated that any peace initiative must be acceptable to both parties involved.
Addressing Other Diplomatic Issues
During the same briefing, Jaiswal addressed concerns regarding Indian nationals stranded at Sao Paulo Airport in Brazil. The Indian Consulate in Sao Paulo is in contact with local authorities and the Brazilian Foreign Office to resolve the situation, ensuring that the stranded Indians receive adequate care and assistance.
"Our consulate is in touch with the foreign office representative in Sao Paulo and has sought a meeting with local authorities. The Indians at the airport are being taken care of in terms of food nourishment and other necessities," Jaiswal assured.
Strengthening India-Africa Ties
Jaiswal also spoke at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event focused on Africa, where he highlighted the historic and special nature of India-Africa relations. He noted that the recent 19th CII India-Africa Conclave, held in Delhi, had given a significant boost to economic ties between India and African nations.
The conclave saw participation from high-level representatives across Africa, including vice presidents from several countries and 40 ministerial participants, alongside over 1,200 delegates from 65 nations. The event underscored India's commitment to deepening its economic partnership with Africa and strengthening the voice of the Global South.
The CII has played a pivotal role in enhancing India-Africa ties over the past 25 years, with 75 counterpart organizations in 37 African countries facilitating business exchanges and cooperation.
Conclusion
India’s proactive diplomatic stance underscores its commitment to playing a constructive role on the global stage. Whether through facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine or strengthening ties with Africa, New Delhi continues to emphasize dialogue, cooperation, and mutually acceptable solutions as the keys to addressing global challenges.
——— End of Article ———
