PM meets Ukraine's Zelenskyy in US, reaffirms support for peaceful resolution of conflict

PTC News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, where he reiterated India’s commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and restoring stability to the region.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi shared photos of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, expressing India's dedication to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting peace. He stated, "Met President Zelenskyy in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability."

The meeting comes as part of PM Modi’s three-day visit to the United States, where he addressed the UN's "Summit of the Future," held amidst increasing global unrest. A video shared by the news agency PTI captured the warm exchange between the two leaders, showing PM Modi and Zelenskyy greeting each other with a hug and handshake. India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar was also seen present during the meeting.

Frequent Diplomatic Engagements

This marks the third meeting between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy in the last three months. Their continued engagement highlights India’s proactive role in promoting dialogue and diplomacy regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In August 2024, PM Modi made a significant visit to Ukraine, where he reinforced India’s firm stance advocating peace in the war-torn nation.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues, with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict being a central point of conversation. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri provided further insight into the dialogue, explaining that President Zelenskyy was particularly appreciative of India’s efforts in addressing the conflict. Misri stated, "This is the third meeting between the two leaders in the space of probably 3 months... Their discussions on all matters, including the bilateral relationship and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were constructive. President Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for India's attention to these issues and praised PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine, which had been highly appreciated for its focus on peace and conflict resolution."

Misri further emphasised that both leaders recognised the positive momentum in their bilateral relations and committed to staying in close contact through direct communications or official visits at various levels.

PM Modi’s US Visit and Broader Diplomatic Engagements

PM Modi's meeting with Zelenskyy came after his arrival in New York on September 21, following his participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware. At the summit, Modi also held bilateral discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden, covering key issues affecting the Indo-Pacific region and global security.

As part of his busy schedule in the United States, PM Modi addressed a large gathering of the Indian-American community at the ‘Modi&US’ mega event held on Long Island on September 22. He also held a roundtable conference with top U.S. tech leaders and CEOs, discussing advancements and collaboration in technology, innovation, and investment between the two nations.

PM Modi’s continued diplomatic outreach with global leaders, including President Zelenskyy, underscores India’s growing role in mediating international conflicts and promoting peace, while also strengthening its global partnerships.

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