Ahead of key talks, Modi tells Putin: 'India is not neutral, it's on the side of peace'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a clear note of peace on Friday (Dec 5) as he prepared to sit down for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Before the formal meeting began, Modi talking to the press addressed the war in Ukraine directly. He told Putin that India was not sitting on the sidelines, but standing firmly "on the side of peace."

Modi told the Russian President that “Whenever I had an interaction with the world leaders, in detailed discussions, I always said that India is not neutral. India has a side and that side is of peace. We support all efforts for peace and we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with all efforts for peace.” He implored Putin towards peace, saying, "We should keep looking for peaceful solutions," and revealed that they have exchanged opinions on the Ukraine issue.

Modi said both leaders had already exchanged views on Ukraine and that the search for a peaceful way forward must continue. He also reflected on how much the world has endured in recent years, from the COVID pandemic to economic shocks and conflicts on multiple fronts. He said he believes that the global community "will be relieved from such disasters".

Putin acknowledged India-Russia ties

The Russian President, in his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, discussed the deep and enduring India-Russia relationship, which he said was based on actions rather than mere talk. "I could share a great deal of details of events that are taking place in Ukraine, and the actions we are taking are in partnership with the US on a possible peaceful settlement. Thank you for your attention and action in finding a solution for the situation," he said. "Our relations are deeply rooted in history - but it's not words that matter; it's the substance, which is profound," he added.
Putin also appreciated PM Modi's personal involvement in advancing bilateral cooperation, highlighting the level of trust between the two nations.