New Delhi, 5 Dec 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday made it clear that India is not neutral on the Ukraine conflict, asserting that the country stands firmly on the side of peace. He conveyed this strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi, where the ongoing war in Ukraine was a key topic of discussion.

In his televised remarks at the summit, Modi emphasised India’s long-held position of supporting dialogue and diplomacy. “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,” he said. Reiterating India’s commitment, he added, “I have always said that 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 acknowledged Putin’s regular updates on the conflict, noting that trust between the two nations has remained strong over decades of strategic partnership. “As a close friend, you have been regularly apprising us of the situation. I think trust is a major strength,” he told the Russian leader.

Responding to Modi’s remarks, Putin said that Russia is also working towards achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which began in February 2022.

Putin, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening, received a red-carpet welcome on his first visit to India in four years. Modi personally welcomed him at Palam airport with a warm embrace before the two leaders headed together to the Prime Minister’s residence for a private dinner. Their informal engagement is understood to have helped set a positive tone for the summit.

Beyond the Ukraine issue, the two leaders discussed bolstering defence and trade ties, insulating bilateral cooperation from external pressures and exploring collaboration in nuclear technology, including small modular reactors.

Several agreements are expected to be signed, including those aimed at facilitating the movement of Indian workers to Russia and enhancing defence logistics. India has also pushed for increasing exports in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture and consumer goods, as the widening trade deficit remains a concern.