India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the Russia-Ukraine conflict is a "war without winners” and that its solution lies in negotiation rather than trade, as he wrapped up talks in Warsaw that also covered several areas and a deepening India-Poland partnership. The visit comes ahead of Poland PM Donald Tusk's India visit in October.&nbsp;Speaking after meetings with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks in Bishkek that “endless wars must give way to an end to war.”&nbsp;The conflict, now in its fifth year, was producing “more deaths, more destruction” for the parties and higher costs for the rest of the world, he said.&nbsp;Asked about India’s purchases of Russian energy, Jaishankar was clear: the solution to the war “is not in trade, the solution is in negotiation.” India has been importing Russian energy, which has been criticised in the Western world, but New Delhi has pointed to the needs of the billion people amid global energy security challenges.&nbsp;India had remained in “continuous touch” with both Moscow and Kyiv and held “detailed discussions” so that “ideas, suggestions can be developed in some ways” to help bring about a “cessation of conflict,” India's foreign minister added. Sikorski said Warsaw’s view of Indian purchases of Russian oil was “well known,” but described Jaishankar’s explanation of New Delhi’s position as “eloquent.”&nbsp;Indian foreign minister arrived in Warsaw after talks in Kyiv. He was earlier in Moscow, where he met Russian foreign minister Lavrov &amp; Russian President Putin. The Warsaw stop followed India’s recent high-level contacts with both Russia and Ukraine and shows New Delhi’s bid to keep channels open while expanding its European footprint.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-to-die-man-shot-by-police-for-climbing-up-brooklyn-bridge-cables-with-knife-1788543465240">‘I want to die’: Man shot by police for climbing up Brooklyn Bridge cables with knife</a>&nbsp;Jaishankar framed the war against a wider backdrop of strain on food, fuel and fertiliser supplies and fragile supply chains. As “political democracies, market economies and open societies,” India and Poland could help shape global debates, he said, including at the United Nations.&nbsp;On bilateral ties, he pointed to an uptick in trade and defence cooperation and “new possibilities” in space, digital technology and artificial intelligence. Fresh agreements were being planned on critical minerals, cybersecurity, space and clean coal that would add “texture to ties.” Indology and Sanskrit programmes at Polish universities were doing well, he noted.&nbsp;India’s relationship with the European Union had “deepened visibly,” with the proposed India-EU free trade agreement as the “centrepiece” that would “open economic opportunities.” Poland, he said, “stands to gain.” India regarded the EU as an important pole in a changing world order.&nbsp;Pressed on irregular Indian migrants in Poland, Jaishankar said New Delhi “strongly, firmly support[s] legalised mobility of people.” Europe faced demand for Indian talent in semiconductors, automobiles, medicine and nursing. A globalised economy, he argued, was “not just for capital [and] goods” but also for “talent and skills.”

S Jaishankar called the Russia-Ukraine conflict a “war without winners” and said negotiations, not trade, offer the way forward as India seeks to keep dialogue open with Moscow and Kyiv while deepening its partnership with Poland and the EU.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the Russia-Ukraine conflict is a "war without winners” and that its solution lies in negotiation rather than trade, as he wrapped up talks in Warsaw that also covered several areas and a deepening India-Poland partnership. The visit comes ahead of Poland PM Donald Tusk's India visit in October. Speaking after meetings with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks in Bishkek that “endless wars must give way to an end to war.” The conflict, now in its fifth year, was producing “more deaths, more destruction” for the parties and higher costs for the rest of the world, he said. Asked about India’s purchases of Russian energy, Jaishankar was clear: the solution to the war “is not in trade, the solution is in negotiation.” India has been importing Russian energy, which has been criticised in the Western world, but New Delhi has pointed to the needs of the billion people amid global energy security challenges. India had remained in “continuous touch” with both Moscow and Kyiv and held “detailed discussions” so that “ideas, suggestions can be developed in some ways” to help bring about a “cessation of conflict,” India's foreign minister added. Sikorski said Warsaw’s view of Indian purchases of Russian oil was “well known,” but described Jaishankar’s explanation of New Delhi’s position as “eloquent.” Indian foreign minister arrived in Warsaw after talks in Kyiv. He was earlier in Moscow, where he met Russian foreign minister Lavrov & Russian President Putin. The Warsaw stop followed India’s recent high-level contacts with both Russia and Ukraine and shows New Delhi’s bid to keep channels open while expanding its European footprint. Also Read: ‘I want to die’: Man shot by police for climbing up Brooklyn Bridge cables with knife Jaishankar framed the war against a wider backdrop of strain on food, fuel and fertiliser supplies and fragile supply chains. As “political democracies, market economies and open societies,” India and Poland could help shape global debates, he said, including at the United Nations. On bilateral ties, he pointed to an uptick in trade and defence cooperation and “new possibilities” in space, digital technology and artificial intelligence. Fresh agreements were being planned on critical minerals, cybersecurity, space and clean coal that would add “texture to ties.” Indology and Sanskrit programmes at Polish universities were doing well, he noted. India’s relationship with the European Union had “deepened visibly,” with the proposed India-EU free trade agreement as the “centrepiece” that would “open economic opportunities.” Poland, he said, “stands to gain.” India regarded the EU as an important pole in a changing world order. Pressed on irregular Indian migrants in Poland, Jaishankar said New Delhi “strongly, firmly support[s] legalised mobility of people.” Europe faced demand for Indian talent in semiconductors, automobiles, medicine and nursing. A globalised economy, he argued, was “not just for capital [and] goods” but also for “talent and skills.”

S Jaishankar called the Russia-Ukraine conflict a “war without winners” and said negotiations, not trade, offer the way forward as India seeks to keep dialogue open with Moscow and Kyiv while deepening its partnership with Poland and the EU.

EAM Jaishankar: Russia-Ukraine conflict is a war ‘without winners’

In a significant peace initiative, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in Kyiv on Thursday that India is ready to contribute in any way possible to efforts to end the war in Ukraine.“If India can be of any help, in any manner, we are there,” Jaishankar told reporters alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.Jaishankar made the remark after his counterpart from Kyiv said that Ukraine expects a “new dynamic” in diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war as international engagement resumes.EAM Jaishankar is currently on a visit to Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signals-openness-to-ukraine-deal-thanks-us-and-china-for-peace-efforts-1788433350060">Putin signals openness to Ukraine deal, thanks US and China for peace efforts</a>&nbsp;Sybiha said he believed there would now be a “new dynamic” in efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, with active political and diplomatic engagement resuming in capitals around the world.“I believe that we will now have a new dynamic in the peace efforts, with the return of this active phase of political and diplomatic engagement in many capitals around the world,” Sybiha told reporters.&nbsp;<h2>‘There is a chance of reaching peace agreement’: Putin&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;His remarks came as Russian President Vladimir Putin said there was a chance of reaching a peace agreement to end the war, although he acknowledged that restarting negotiations had become more difficult.“Is there a chance? In my view, yes, there is,” Putin said at an economic forum in Russia’s Far East. He said several countries, including the United States and China, were ready to support a peace settlement.&nbsp;Putin, however, stressed that the ultimate responsibility for resolving the conflict lay with Russia and Ukraine.“Ultimately, however, the problem must be resolved by the countries involved in the conflict — Russia and Ukraine,” Putin said, adding that Moscow was grateful to those trying to contribute to a settlement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-and-nato-step-up-pressure-on-russia-after-germany-escalation-incidents-1788381258249">EU and NATO step up pressure on Russia after Germany ‘escalation incidents’</a>&nbsp;Putin said Russia was continuing contacts with the administration of US President Donald Trump, which has sought to broker a peace deal between Moscow and Kyiv.“We favour restoring full-scale relations with the United States,” Putin said.&nbsp;The Russian president also accused Ukraine of attacking civilian merchant ships and issuing warnings about the safety of civilian aircraft flying over Russian airspace, describing these as “acts of state terrorism” that further complicate the prospects for bilateral peace talks.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had warned airlines and insurance companies that the presence of Ukrainian drones had made Russian skies dangerous. He said Ukraine would target only Russian military facilities and would not threaten civilian aircraft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suggests-renaming-strait-of-hormuz-to-trump-strait-1788377239194">Trump suggests renaming Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump Strait’</a>&nbsp;On Wednesday, Ukraine had urged the UN aviation agency to ask member states to ban operations in Russian airspace. Ukraine’s own airspace has remained closed to international civil aviation since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.&nbsp;<h2>Ministers discuss attacks on commercial shipping in Black Sea&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The two ministers also discussed attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, which Jaishankar said featured prominently in their talks.&nbsp;Indian seafarers were killed and injured in the latest escalations between Russia and Ukraine in the Black Sea.&nbsp;New Delhi has called for an end to the war through dialogue and diplomacy while reiterating the safety of Indians and other seafarers.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he believed there would now be a “new dynamic” in efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, with active diplomatic engagement resuming. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Sybiha also discussed attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea.

In a significant peace initiative, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in Kyiv on Thursday that India is ready to contribute in any way possible to efforts to end the war in Ukraine. “If India can be of any help, in any manner, we are there,” Jaishankar told reporters alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Jaishankar made the remark after his counterpart from Kyiv said that Ukraine expects a “new dynamic” in diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war as international engagement resumes. EAM Jaishankar is currently on a visit to Ukraine. Also Read: Putin signals openness to Ukraine deal, thanks US and China for peace efforts Sybiha said he believed there would now be a “new dynamic” in efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, with active political and diplomatic engagement resuming in capitals around the world. “I believe that we will now have a new dynamic in the peace efforts, with the return of this active phase of political and diplomatic engagement in many capitals around the world,” Sybiha told reporters. ‘There is a chance of reaching peace agreement’: Putin His remarks came as Russian President Vladimir Putin said there was a chance of reaching a peace agreement to end the war, although he acknowledged that restarting negotiations had become more difficult. “Is there a chance? In my view, yes, there is,” Putin said at an economic forum in Russia’s Far East. He said several countries, including the United States and China, were ready to support a peace settlement. Putin, however, stressed that the ultimate responsibility for resolving the conflict lay with Russia and Ukraine. “Ultimately, however, the problem must be resolved by the countries involved in the conflict — Russia and Ukraine,” Putin said, adding that Moscow was grateful to those trying to contribute to a settlement. Also Read: EU and NATO step up pressure on Russia after Germany ‘escalation incidents’ Putin said Russia was continuing contacts with the administration of US President Donald Trump, which has sought to broker a peace deal between Moscow and Kyiv. “We favour restoring full-scale relations with the United States,” Putin said. The Russian president also accused Ukraine of attacking civilian merchant ships and issuing warnings about the safety of civilian aircraft flying over Russian airspace, describing these as “acts of state terrorism” that further complicate the prospects for bilateral peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had warned airlines and insurance companies that the presence of Ukrainian drones had made Russian skies dangerous. He said Ukraine would target only Russian military facilities and would not threaten civilian aircraft. Also Read: Trump suggests renaming Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump Strait’ On Wednesday, Ukraine had urged the UN aviation agency to ask member states to ban operations in Russian airspace. Ukraine’s own airspace has remained closed to international civil aviation since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Ministers discuss attacks on commercial shipping in Black Sea The two ministers also discussed attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, which Jaishankar said featured prominently in their talks. Indian seafarers were killed and injured in the latest escalations between Russia and Ukraine in the Black Sea. New Delhi has called for an end to the war through dialogue and diplomacy while reiterating the safety of Indians and other seafarers.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he believed there would now be a “new dynamic” in efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, with active diplomatic engagement resuming. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Sybiha also discussed attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea.

India ready to help end Russia-Ukraine war, says EAM Jaishankar during Kyiv visit

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has played down the immediate significance of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, questioning what the pact has achieved amid the ongoing military situations confronting its three signatories. “There are live military situations which each of the signatories face, what has the Makkah pact done in response to that?” he said when asked about India’s reaction to the agreement at an event in Delhi.&nbsp;At the same time, Jaishankar made it clear that New Delhi would not ignore the development. He said India would factor the agreement into its broader security assessment, particularly when it involves countries whose policies are viewed as unfavourable towards India. “In my calculus, everything counts, everything will have a weight…and sometimes things need to play out,” he said. “Everything which happens on the part of any player who’s not well disposed towards me, of course counts in my calculation.”<h2>What is the Makkah joint defence agreement?</h2>Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on August 7 after talks involving Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. A joint statement issued by the three countries said the agreement is rooted in shared strategic interests and longstanding defence cooperation. “The agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three states shall be regarded as an attack against them all,” it said.&nbsp;“It further provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation among the three states,” the joint statement said.The pact establishes a framework for collective defence and deeper military cooperation among the three countries. It also builds on the expanding defence relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.<h2>What did the MEA say about the pact?</h2>India initially responded cautiously to the agreement. On August 7, the Ministry of External Affairs said it was closely monitoring the development. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “Regarding your question about the trilateral pact, this is a development we are monitoring closely, and we will keep you updated.”&nbsp;On August 11, the MEA offered a more detailed assessment, saying New Delhi was examining the agreement from the perspective of national security and regional peace and stability. “As far as this agreement is concerned, we are examining its implications both from the perspective of India's national security and considerations of regional peace and stability,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his bi-weekly media briefing.&nbsp;Jaiswal also said India remained committed to safeguarding its national interests and would take all necessary measures in this regard. He added that New Delhi was continuing to closely monitor “all developments in the West Asia conflict.” Jaishankar's latest comments suggest that while India is taking the pact seriously as part of its strategic assessment, New Delhi is not necessarily viewing it as an immediate game-changing military development.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dan-driscoll-to-leave-us-army-secretary-post-amid-tension-with-hegseth-here-s-what-report-claims-1787424895390">Dan Driscoll to leave US Army secretary post amid tension with Hegseth? Here's what report claims</a><h2>Jaishankar calls Pakistan ‘unique’ over terrorism</h2>Jaishankar also sharply criticised Pakistan while discussing its relationship with the United States. Describing Pakistan as a “unique” country, he argued that no other nation uses terrorism as systematically and continuously to pressure a neighbouring state. “Pakistan is unique not because it is a neighbour of India. We have other neighbours. There are other countries who have problems between them.&nbsp;“It is unique because in this day and age, there is no other country which uses terrorism so systematically and in such a sustained manner to attack and pressurise another neighbour, and that has an impact on public opinion in this country,” he said. Jaishankar was responding to a question about Pakistan-US relations. He noted that Washington and Islamabad have a long history of ties, while emphasising that India has developed its own relationship with the United States.<h2>Jaishankar on India-China ties</h2>The external affairs minister also discussed India-China relations, saying both countries have an interest in maintaining a stable relationship, while stressing that the border situation remains central to the broader relationship. “China industrialised much faster and much earlier than India. We missed an opportunity to industrialise and manufacture for 50 years from the 1960s onwards,” he said. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” he said.&nbsp;Jaishankar said India and China are “very big economies” and important markets for each other, while arguing that India must continue doing business with the entire world, including China. “The world is competitive. We must build up our strengths. We have to do business with the entire world. That includes China too. But it is important we deal with them confidently and we stand our ground as we have stood in the the border,” he said.

S Jaishankar questions the Makkah defence pact’s significance and says India will factor Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye’s moves into its security calculus

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has played down the immediate significance of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, questioning what the pact has achieved amid the ongoing military situations confronting its three signatories. “There are live military situations which each of the signatories face, what has the Makkah pact done in response to that?” he said when asked about India’s reaction to the agreement at an event in Delhi. At the same time, Jaishankar made it clear that New Delhi would not ignore the development. He said India would factor the agreement into its broader security assessment, particularly when it involves countries whose policies are viewed as unfavourable towards India. “In my calculus, everything counts, everything will have a weight…and sometimes things need to play out,” he said. “Everything which happens on the part of any player who’s not well disposed towards me, of course counts in my calculation.” What is the Makkah joint defence agreement? Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on August 7 after talks involving Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. A joint statement issued by the three countries said the agreement is rooted in shared strategic interests and longstanding defence cooperation. “The agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three states shall be regarded as an attack against them all,” it said. “It further provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation among the three states,” the joint statement said. The pact establishes a framework for collective defence and deeper military cooperation among the three countries. It also builds on the expanding defence relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. What did the MEA say about the pact? India initially responded cautiously to the agreement. On August 7, the Ministry of External Affairs said it was closely monitoring the development. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “Regarding your question about the trilateral pact, this is a development we are monitoring closely, and we will keep you updated.” On August 11, the MEA offered a more detailed assessment, saying New Delhi was examining the agreement from the perspective of national security and regional peace and stability. “As far as this agreement is concerned, we are examining its implications both from the perspective of India's national security and considerations of regional peace and stability,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his bi-weekly media briefing. Jaiswal also said India remained committed to safeguarding its national interests and would take all necessary measures in this regard. He added that New Delhi was continuing to closely monitor “all developments in the West Asia conflict.” Jaishankar's latest comments suggest that while India is taking the pact seriously as part of its strategic assessment, New Delhi is not necessarily viewing it as an immediate game-changing military development. Also Read: Dan Driscoll to leave US Army secretary post amid tension with Hegseth? Here's what report claims Jaishankar calls Pakistan ‘unique’ over terrorism Jaishankar also sharply criticised Pakistan while discussing its relationship with the United States. Describing Pakistan as a “unique” country, he argued that no other nation uses terrorism as systematically and continuously to pressure a neighbouring state. “Pakistan is unique not because it is a neighbour of India. We have other neighbours. There are other countries who have problems between them. “It is unique because in this day and age, there is no other country which uses terrorism so systematically and in such a sustained manner to attack and pressurise another neighbour, and that has an impact on public opinion in this country,” he said. Jaishankar was responding to a question about Pakistan-US relations. He noted that Washington and Islamabad have a long history of ties, while emphasising that India has developed its own relationship with the United States. Jaishankar on India-China ties The external affairs minister also discussed India-China relations, saying both countries have an interest in maintaining a stable relationship, while stressing that the border situation remains central to the broader relationship. “China industrialised much faster and much earlier than India. We missed an opportunity to industrialise and manufacture for 50 years from the 1960s onwards,” he said. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” he said. Jaishankar said India and China are “very big economies” and important markets for each other, while arguing that India must continue doing business with the entire world, including China. “The world is competitive. We must build up our strengths. We have to do business with the entire world. That includes China too. But it is important we deal with them confidently and we stand our ground as we have stood in the the border,” he said.

Jaishankar questioned the Makkah defence pact’s impact while saying India will factor every move by unfriendly players into its security calculus

'What has the Makkah pact done?': Jaishankar questions significance of Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi defence deal

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation on Friday evening with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed New Delhi’s deep concerns over hostilities in WesAraghchi andtacks on commercial shipping.&nbsp;In a statement by India, EAM Jaishankar “strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He was briefed on Iran’s perspective of current developments and ongoing discussions. India reiterated its consistent support for “dialogue and diplomacy”.&nbsp;The call comes against a backdrop of repeated disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of global oil supplies passes, has seen multiple incidents targeting commercial vessels this year.&nbsp;Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified, prompting public anger and official demands for the protection of civilian mariners who form a significant portion of the global shipping workforce.&nbsp;India, which relies heavily on energy imports transiting the region and has large numbers of its nationals working on merchant ships, has repeatedly stressed the need to keep sea lanes open and protect civilian lives.&nbsp;&nbsp;The telephonic talk comes as India prepares to host the BRICS Summit in September. India and Iran, both full members of the expanded BRICS grouping, continue to engage closely as New Delhi holds the bloc’s 2026 chairmanship.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran joined BRICS in 2024 alongside Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and later Indonesia, expanding the original five-nation group. India is chairing BRICS for the fourth time in 2026 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified.

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation on Friday evening with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed New Delhi’s deep concerns over hostilities in WesAraghchi andtacks on commercial shipping. In a statement by India, EAM Jaishankar “strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party.” He was briefed on Iran’s perspective of current developments and ongoing discussions. India reiterated its consistent support for “dialogue and diplomacy”. The call comes against a backdrop of repeated disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of global oil supplies passes, has seen multiple incidents targeting commercial vessels this year. Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified, prompting public anger and official demands for the protection of civilian mariners who form a significant portion of the global shipping workforce. India, which relies heavily on energy imports transiting the region and has large numbers of its nationals working on merchant ships, has repeatedly stressed the need to keep sea lanes open and protect civilian lives. The telephonic talk comes as India prepares to host the BRICS Summit in September. India and Iran, both full members of the expanded BRICS grouping, continue to engage closely as New Delhi holds the bloc’s 2026 chairmanship. Iran joined BRICS in 2024 alongside Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and later Indonesia, expanding the original five-nation group. India is chairing BRICS for the fourth time in 2026 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

Indian seafarers have paid a particularly heavy price. In recent months, multiple incidents have left Indian crew members dead or injured. Overall, at least 8 Indian sailors have been killed and dozens injured since hostilities intensified.

Shipping safety raised during EAM Jaishankar, Iran FM Araghchi talks

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart, Politburo member Wang Yi, on the sidelines ASEAN Foreign ministers meet in the Philippine capital, Manila signalling continued efforts to stabilise relations between Asia's two giants more than six years after deadly border clashes.&nbsp;India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar noted the progress in ties since the leaders’ meeting in Kazan in October 2024, &amp; Tianjin last August. “Since the meeting of our leaders in Kazan in October 2024, relations between India and China have been gradually normalising,” Jaishankar stated. “This direction was further affirmed when they met in Tianjin last August.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-controls-a-critical-ingredient-for-western-ammunition-gravitas-1784659110869">How China controls a critical ingredient for Western ammunition | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;The Indian minister stressed that a stable relationship must rest on firm foundations. “Such a relationship can make a valuable contribution to a multi-polar Asia and a multi-polar world,” he observed, adding that ties should be guided by “mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity.”Jaishankar reiterated a consistent Indian position on border issues that, “peace and tranquillity in the border areas is obviously the pre-requisite for normal ties. Since October 2024, both sides have engaged to ensure that important objective. This will continue to need our constant attention.”He invoked the leaders’ understanding that “differences should not become disputes,” placing responsibility on diplomacy to manage them responsibly.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-s-new-ai-bloc-china-launches-world-ai-body-with-pakistan-and-russia-in-india-out-1784480997641">Xi Jinping's new AI bloc: China launches 'World AI Body' with Pakistan and Russia in, India out</a>&nbsp;Jaishankar welcomed practical steps already taken, the resumption of direct flights, updated visa arrangements, the restart of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, and the recommencement of border trade but flagged issues like fair market access, addressing the trade imbalance, predictable supply chains.&nbsp;The meeting came against a backdrop of re set of ties. Since the 2020 Galwan Valley violence that killed 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese troops, both sides have disengaged forces from several friction points along the Line of Actual Control.&nbsp;India is the chair of BRICS grouping this year and will hold the summit in September. China is extended support to India's BRICS Presidency. &nbsp;

EAM S Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila as India-China ties show signs of stabilisation after the 2020 Galwan clash. Jaishankar stressed mutual respect, border peace and managing differences, while welcoming renewed flights, visas, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and border trade.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart, Politburo member Wang Yi, on the sidelines ASEAN Foreign ministers meet in the Philippine capital, Manila signalling continued efforts to stabilise relations between Asia's two giants more than six years after deadly border clashes. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar noted the progress in ties since the leaders’ meeting in Kazan in October 2024, & Tianjin last August. “Since the meeting of our leaders in Kazan in October 2024, relations between India and China have been gradually normalising,” Jaishankar stated. “This direction was further affirmed when they met in Tianjin last August.” Also Read: How China controls a critical ingredient for Western ammunition | Gravitas The Indian minister stressed that a stable relationship must rest on firm foundations. “Such a relationship can make a valuable contribution to a multi-polar Asia and a multi-polar world,” he observed, adding that ties should be guided by “mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity.” Jaishankar reiterated a consistent Indian position on border issues that, “peace and tranquillity in the border areas is obviously the pre-requisite for normal ties. Since October 2024, both sides have engaged to ensure that important objective. This will continue to need our constant attention.” He invoked the leaders’ understanding that “differences should not become disputes,” placing responsibility on diplomacy to manage them responsibly. Also Read: Xi Jinping's new AI bloc: China launches 'World AI Body' with Pakistan and Russia in, India out Jaishankar welcomed practical steps already taken, the resumption of direct flights, updated visa arrangements, the restart of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, and the recommencement of border trade but flagged issues like fair market access, addressing the trade imbalance, predictable supply chains. The meeting came against a backdrop of re set of ties. Since the 2020 Galwan Valley violence that killed 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese troops, both sides have disengaged forces from several friction points along the Line of Actual Control. India is the chair of BRICS grouping this year and will hold the summit in September. China is extended support to India's BRICS Presidency.

EAM S Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila as India-China ties show signs of stabilisation after the 2020 Galwan clash. Jaishankar stressed mutual respect, border peace and managing differences, while welcoming renewed flights

India and China relations 'gradually normalising', EAM Jaishankar tells Chinese FM Wang Yi

EAM Dr S Jaishankar has strongly raised India's concerns over the safety of its seafarers, following the deaths of four Indian nationals in a Russian missile strike on a cargo vessel in the Black Sea.External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the issue during bilateral discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN FMs meet in Manila, emphasising the need to protect civilian merchant mariners operating in high-risk zones.The deaths occurred on 19 July when the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo, carrying grain from Ukraine's Odesa port, was hit by Russian cruise missiles. Of the 17 crew members, five were Indian; four died, and one was critically injured. India swiftly summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires, Vladimir Ladanov, to the Ministry of External Affairs, conveying "grave concerns" and a strong condemnation of attacks on commercial shipping. The Kremlin responded that it remained in touch with Indian partners, noting that its forces target vessels involved in transporting ammunition or weapons for Ukraine.In the wider bilateral meeting, the two sides discussed various aspects of the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Indian readout said they "discussed various aspects of our partnership, including trade &amp; investment, energy &amp; connectivity, science &amp; technology, and mobility".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-russia-ukraine-war-is-reshaping-energy-flows-food-prices-defence-spending-and-india-s-strategy-wion-decodes-1783337395169">How Russia-Ukraine war is reshaping energy flows, food prices, defence spending and India’s strategy | WION Decodes</a>Both countries are aiming to push bilateral commerce towards a $100 billion target. Energy cooperation, connectivity projects such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Northern Sea Route, science and technology initiatives, and greater mobility of skilled professionals remain key elements of ties.The ministers exchanged views on regional and global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the volatile situation in the Gulf/West Asia.India reiterated its consistent position favouring dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts, while stressing the protection of sea lanes and civilian lives.The talks come ahead of the BRICS Summit, where Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India later in 2026. The grouping, now expanded, offers a platform for both nations to advance multipolar cooperation on economic resilience and global governance.

The deaths occurred on 19 July when the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo, carrying grain from Ukraine's Odesa port, was hit by Russian cruise missiles. Of the 17 crew members, five were Indian; four died, and one was critically injured.

EAM Dr S Jaishankar has strongly raised India's concerns over the safety of its seafarers, following the deaths of four Indian nationals in a Russian missile strike on a cargo vessel in the Black Sea. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised the issue during bilateral discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN FMs meet in Manila, emphasising the need to protect civilian merchant mariners operating in high-risk zones. The deaths occurred on 19 July when the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo, carrying grain from Ukraine's Odesa port, was hit by Russian cruise missiles. Of the 17 crew members, five were Indian; four died, and one was critically injured. India swiftly summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires, Vladimir Ladanov, to the Ministry of External Affairs, conveying "grave concerns" and a strong condemnation of attacks on commercial shipping. The Kremlin responded that it remained in touch with Indian partners, noting that its forces target vessels involved in transporting ammunition or weapons for Ukraine. In the wider bilateral meeting, the two sides discussed various aspects of the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Indian readout said they "discussed various aspects of our partnership, including trade & investment, energy & connectivity, science & technology, and mobility". Also read | How Russia-Ukraine war is reshaping energy flows, food prices, defence spending and India’s strategy | WION Decodes Both countries are aiming to push bilateral commerce towards a $100 billion target. Energy cooperation, connectivity projects such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Northern Sea Route, science and technology initiatives, and greater mobility of skilled professionals remain key elements of ties. The ministers exchanged views on regional and global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the volatile situation in the Gulf/West Asia. India reiterated its consistent position favouring dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts, while stressing the protection of sea lanes and civilian lives. The talks come ahead of the BRICS Summit, where Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India later in 2026. The grouping, now expanded, offers a platform for both nations to advance multipolar cooperation on economic resilience and global governance.

The deaths occurred on 19 July when the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo, carrying grain from Ukraine's Odesa port, was hit by Russian cruise missiles. Of the 17 crew members, five were Indian; four died, and one was critically injured.

India’s EAM Jaishankar voices ‘strong concern’ over seafarer safety in talks with Russian FM Lavrov

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Jaishankar voices ‘strong concern’ over seafarer safety in talks with Russian FM