India calls for cessation of hostilities in Ukraine ahead of PM Modi’s Europe trip

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a tour of three European nations, India on May 1 once again called for the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine and resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, noting that was an appreciation of its position on the crisis by its partner countries.

At a media briefing, newly appointed Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra underlined the “context, clarity, importance and positive dimension” of India’s position on Ukraine and asserted that there should not be any doubt about it.

On his first trip abroad ”The Prime Minister’s first visit in 2022 factors an ambitious and substantial agenda packed into an intense schedule. The principal purpose of the visit is for India to continue to strengthen its multi-dimensional multi-faceted partnerships with key countries of Europe,” the Foreign Secretary said.

On May 4, Mr. Modi will have a brief stopover in Paris on his return journey where he will hold extensive talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, who was re-elected to the top post last week.

“Narendra Modi’s visit to France will provide an opportunity to carry forward high-level engagement between the two countries following the French presidential election,” Mr. Kwatra said year, Mr. Modi will embark on a three-day visit to Germany, Denmark and France beginning Monday amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

Asked whether the Ukraine crisis will figure in his talks with the European leaders, Mr. Kwatra said: “When the Prime Minister interfaces with the leaders, naturally issues of regional and global importance would also figure in the discussions. But the principal focus of the visit is to structure and strengthen bilateral partnership across a range of areas and exchange perspectives on Ukraine issues.” The Foreign Secretary also said that it would not be correct for him to comment on the position of each of these countries on the Ukraine issue.