Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Poland, has advocated for diplomacy and dialogues to resolve conflicts, stating that "this isn't an era of war." His crucial statement on Wednesday comes ahead of his Ukraine visit at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Prime Minister made the crucial statement while addressing the Indian diaspora in Poland, thereby becoming the first Prime Minister to visit the country in 40 years. His statement is also reminiscent of the remarks he made while visiting Russia just after the start of the Ukraine war.
Stating that India was the land of Lord Buddha’s legacy, Modi added: "India does not believe in war and advocates for peace in this region. India’s concept is clear: this is not an era of war, and it is the time to unite to tackle the biggest challenges of humanity. Thus, India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict," PM Modi said.
Modi also told the Indian nationals who arrived in Warsaw to meet him about how he got the opportunity to pay tribute at the Monte Cassino Memorial. "This memorial reminds us of the sacrifice of thousands of Indian soldiers. This is proof of how Indians have performed their duty in every corner of the world."
He added that India of the 21st century was moving ahead on the path of development while priding itself on its values and heritage."We Indians are known for our efforts, actions and empathy. Wherever we go, we Indians can be seen making maximum efforts. Be it entrepreneurship, caregivers or our service sector, Indians are bringing laurels to the country through their efforts," he added.
Modi also highlighted India's willingness to extend a helping hand to any country that faces a crisis. "Wherever in the world there is an earthquake or any disaster, India has only one mantra Humanity first," he added.
After his Poland visit, Modi will head to Kyiv on Thursday, thereby becoming the first Indian leader to visit the war-torn country since its formation in 1991. Modi will travel to Kyiv from Poland in a 'Rail Force One' train that will take around 10 hours.
Regional experts view the visit as a balancing act for India, which also gives Modi a chance to urge peace negotiations. However, Delhi has already made it clear that it would not unveil a peace plan in Kyiv, but was willing to back peace talks.
The Prime Minister's meeting with Zelenskyy is crucial since the latter had expressed his dissapointment as Modi meeting and hugging Putin during his Kremlin visit earlier the year.
The Ministry of External Affairs has said that the talks between Modi and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to focus on India-Ukraine ties, with emphasis on agriculture, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, health and education, and defence. The duo may also discuss defence and economic cooperation, including India's role in the eventual rebuilding of post-war Ukraine.