Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a high-profile meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi on Friday, delivered a clear message on the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe. India is not neutral, but stands firmly on the side of peace, Modi stated, framing New Delhi's position amidst global pressure to influence Moscow.
A Clear Stance on Peace, Not Neutrality
Addressing the Russian leader directly at Hyderabad House, PM Modi articulated India's nuanced diplomatic posture. "In the last few days, whenever I have spoken to world leaders, I have always told them that India is not neutral, India is on the side of peace, we support all efforts towards peace," he declared, with Putin by his side. This marked a significant evolution from his earlier statement to Putin in September 2022 that "this is not the era of war."
The Prime Minister emphasized the trust between the two nations, noting they had discussed the Ukraine issue many times. "The welfare of the world is through peace. We should all work together towards peace," Modi added, expressing hope that recent efforts would steer the world back toward stability.
Putin's Guarded Response and Diplomatic Language
In his remarks, President Putin was more circumspect about the details of their discussions on the war. He acknowledged speaking in "detail on the situation in Ukraine" and touched upon talks initiated by the United States towards a "possible peaceful settlement of this crisis." Notably, both leaders consistently referred to the situation as a "crisis" rather than a "war" or "conflict."
Putin thanked Modi for his "attention to this matter and for your efforts aimed at resolving the situation." He revealed that the issue was also discussed during a private dinner at the Prime Minister's Lok Kalyan Marg residence on Thursday night, where Modi gifted Putin a copy of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian.
On broader geopolitics, Putin highlighted a convergence of views, stating, "Both Russia and India conduct an independent and sovereign foreign policy" and promote a "just, democratic and multipolar world order."
Energy Security and Economic Ties Amid Sanctions
The talks also delved into the crucial area of energy cooperation, which has been impacted by the Trump administration's 25% penalty tariffs on Russian oil imports. PM Modi framed India's continued engagement as an "energy security" imperative. "Energy security has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership," he stated, committing to continue "win-win cooperation" without pledging any specific reduction in imports.
President Putin positioned Russia as a "reliable supplier" ready to ensure "uninterrupted fuel supplies for India's fast-growing economy." Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri later clarified India's position, stating that the priority is securing energy for 1.4 billion Indians, with decisions made by companies based on "evolving market dynamics" and commercial considerations.
Celebrating 25 Years of Strategic Partnership
The meeting served as a milestone, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the India-Russia strategic partnership, which was initiated during Putin's first visit to India in 2000 when he met Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. PM Modi, who was part of the Indian delegation during Vajpayee's 2001 visit to Russia, described the current visit as "very historic."
"The foundation that you laid, as a visionary leader... is an excellent example of India-Russia bilateral ties," Modi told Putin, praising his role in establishing the enduring partnership. Both leaders expressed confidence that economic ties would be strengthened and scale new heights, despite the turbulent global landscape marked by crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The discussions underscore India's delicate balancing act: maintaining a historic strategic partnership with Russia while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict, all while safeguarding its own energy and economic security in a fragmented world order.
