External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (August 23) briefed the media about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Ukraine where he met President Zelenskyy. "Much of discussions between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy was with regard to the war in Ukraine," Jaishankar said at a briefing.
What happened at PM Modi's meeting with Zelenskyy?
The EAM said that the Prime Minister sent out a message on the Russia-Ukraine war and said, "It is India's view that the two sides need to engage with each other to find a solution".
"PM Modi reiterated India's willingness to contribute in all possible ways to facilitate an early return of peace. PM Modi called for practical engagement between all stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that will contribute towards early restoration of peace. At various points of time, India had taken public positions cautioning against danger of escalation," he said.
During his meeting with the Ukrainian President, PM Modi also spoke to him about his recent visit to Russia where he met President Vladimir Putin.
"In talks with Zelenskyy, PM Modi shared wide-spread sentiment in Global South about the repercussions of this conflict. PM spoke also about his discussions recently with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow," Jaishankar said.
"It is India's view that the two sides need to engage with each other to find a solution," EAM said.
PM Modi invites Zelenskyy to India
Jaishankar informed that the Prime Minister has formally invited Zelenskyy to India.
"PM Modi has invited Ukraine President Zelenskyy to visit India...We expect that as per his convenience President Zelenskyy will visit India..." Jaishankar said.
The prime minister arrived in Kyiv on a special train in the morning and he was received by the first deputy prime minister of Ukraine. Jaishankar said a significant part of discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy was devoted to the bilateral relations.
There were discussions on trade, economic issues, defence, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, education, he said. PM Modi and Zelenskyy also tasked the India-Ukraine inter-governmental commission to specifically focus on rebuilding trade and economic relations.
