‘Every day of war sets humanity back’: PM Modi urges Russia’s Putin to end hostilities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told Russian President Vladimir Putin that India supports all efforts towards peace in Ukraine and called for an end to the ongoing war, saying that every day spent in conflict sets humanity back.

“Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm. We must move away from endless war towards an end to the war. This is essential for the well-being of humanity,” Modi said during his bilateral meeting with Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek.

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Modi said India had consistently discussed the Ukraine conflict with Putin and reiterated New Delhi's position in favour of a peaceful resolution.

“We have consistently discussed the issue of Ukraine. When we met previously, you briefed me in detail on all aspects of the matter. As you know, India supports all efforts towards peace and will continue to do so,” he said.

“A peaceful resolution to all issues at the earliest is the call of humanity, and this is India’s message. The land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message: the path of peace. Today, I look forward to discussing these matters with you,” Modi added.

The remarks came as the two leaders held talks amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and broader geopolitical tensions. The two-day SCO summit began on Monday under the theme, “Together for Sustainable Peace, Development and Prosperity.”

Modi also recalled Putin's visit to India last year, describing it as highly successful and memorable, and said bilateral cooperation had continued to deepen.

“Your visit to India last year was highly successful and truly memorable... It is a matter of deep satisfaction for us that our cooperation continues to scale new heights and that we are working together for the welfare of the people of both nations. Moving forward with national interest as the paramount priority has been our shared approach, and this will remain our guiding principle in the future as well” Modi said.

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Putin, in turn, said Russia-India relations were continuing to strengthen on the basis of their “special and privileged partnership”, while thanking Modi for his attention to bilateral ties.

“I would like to note with satisfaction that Russian-Indian relations continue to strengthen on the basis of the principles of a special and privileged partnership. Distinguished Prime Minister, this is aided by your special attention to Russian-Indian relations and the business and friendly relations that have been established between us. I am very grateful to you for that,” Putin said.

The two leaders are expected to discuss a range of issues, including defence, energy, trade, economy, investments, space and undersea capabilities.

Modi also invited Putin and his delegation to India for the upcoming BRICS summit, saying the visit would further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation within the grouping.

“India is hosting the BRICS Summit in a few days, and all Indians are eager to welcome you and your delegation. Your visit will strengthen our bilateral relations and further reinforce dialogue and cooperation within the BRICS framework,” Modi said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Iranian president and leaders from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus and Kazakhstan are also attending the SCO summit.