In a significant development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss key aspects of the India-Russia partnership and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This dialogue comes shortly after Modi’s recent visit to Ukraine, marking a crucial point in India’s diplomatic engagement with both Russia and Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
According to the statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, the conversation between the two leaders was a continuation of their efforts to strengthen the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” between India and Russia.

Modi recalled his successful visit to Russia in July 2024, where he participated in the 22nd India-Russia Bilateral Summit. During this visit, significant trade and economic agreements were discussed, and both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in implementing these agreements. They also reviewed ongoing collaborative efforts within the BRICS framework, with Modi reaffirming his readiness to participate in the upcoming Kazan Summit, which will be held in October 2024 under Russia’s BRICS chairmanship.
Dialogue on Ukraine Conflict
A crucial part of the conversation centered on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Modi shared insights from his recent visit to Kyiv, emphasizing India’s stance on the importance of a peaceful resolution to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. He underscored the need for sincere and practical engagement between all stakeholders to achieve a lasting peace in the region. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting an early and enduring resolution to the conflict, reflecting India’s consistent position on the need for diplomatic solutions.
On its part, the Kremlin reported that Putin provided his perspective on the conflict, criticizing the actions of the Kyiv authorities and their Western allies. He also outlined Russia’s approach to resolving the conflict, although specific details of these strategies were not disclosed. The conversation highlighted the contrasting perspectives of India and Russia on the Ukraine situation, yet also demonstrated the diplomatic tightrope India is walking in maintaining its strategic ties with Russia while advocating for peace in Ukraine.

India’s Balancing Act
India’s relationship with Russia has come under scrutiny, particularly from Western nations, due to its refusal to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite pressure, India has maintained a neutral stance, balancing its strategic interests with both Russia and the West. This stance was evident during Modi’s Ukraine visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in Ukraine’s modern history, which came at a particularly volatile time in the conflict.

India’s ties with Russia are deeply rooted in historical connections, especially in defence and energy cooperation, with Russia being a significant supplier of military equipment to India since the Soviet era. At the same time, India’s growing relations with the United States and other Western countries, especially in the context of countering China’s influence, add another layer of complexity to its diplomatic posture.
Bottomline

The conversation between Modi and Putin reflects the ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen the India-Russia strategic partnership while navigating the complexities of the Ukraine conflict. As India continues to engage with both Russia and Ukraine, it underscores its commitment to a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, even as it balances its own strategic interests in a rapidly shifting global landscape.

FINANCE EXPRESS