PM Modi interested in developing beneficial relations with Ukraine: Prez Zelenskyy
Evian, June 17
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed keen interest in developing mutually beneficial relations with Ukraine, underscoring the potential for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
The two leaders met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian.
President Zelenskyy said India and Ukraine were already implementing joint projects and had "great potential for cooperation."
He noted that during the meeting, both sides discussed ways to give existing initiatives more substance and to broaden collaboration in industrial and other areas.
"Importantly, the Prime Minister is interested in developing mutually beneficial relations with Ukraine and sees that this partnership can make our people stronger," Zelenskyy remarked in a message posted on X.
He added that there were promising industrial and other projects that both nations could implement together, and confirmed that teams from India and Ukraine would work through the details to advance these initiatives.
The meeting between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy comes at a time when Ukraine is seeking to strengthen its economic partnerships amid the ongoing war with Russia.
India, while maintaining a neutral stance on the conflict, has consistently emphasised dialogue and diplomacy and is exploring avenues to sustain and expand economic ties with Kyiv.
Before the war, India and Ukraine shared strong trade relations, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, machinery and defence cooperation.
The conflict disrupted supply chains and reduced bilateral trade, but both leaders have now signalled intent to revive and expand engagement.
The interaction in Evian highlights India's balancing approach, supporting humanitarian principles and peace while also safeguarding economic interests and exploring new opportunities for cooperation with Ukraine.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting development. India's balancing act between Russia and Ukraine is getting more complex by the day. But I appreciate that Modi is keeping channels open with everyone—it's pragmatic diplomacy. The joint projects in industrial sectors could be beneficial for both economies.
Zelenskyy saying PM Modi is 'interested in developing mutually beneficial relations' is a big statement! Before the war, India-Ukraine trade was strong in agriculture and pharma. We should revive that—especially as Ukraine is a major wheat exporter and we need food security. But let's not forget our strategic ties with Russia. Diplomacy is about threading the needle, and Modi seems to be doing that well.
Good to see India maintaining its independent foreign policy. While the West wants everyone to pick sides, India is showing that you can engage with all nations without compromising principles. Ukraine needs economic partners, and India can offer a lot. Hope the defence cooperation mentioned in the article leads to something concrete.
Let's be honest, India's neutral stance is convenient. While we talk about dialogue and diplomacy, Russia continues its aggression. I understand we have historical ties with Moscow, but at some point we need to take a clearer stand on human rights violations. Zelenskyy's comments sound diplomatic, but Ukraine needs more than promises—they need action. Still, if this leads to more trade, it's a win-win. Just hope we don't end up alienating Russia.
This is classic Modi diplomacy—keeping all options open. India has always been a friend to all, and this meeting shows we can balance
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