Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of his historic visit to Ukraine, reaffirmed India’s stance as a strong advocate for peace in the region, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue. Speaking to the Indian diaspora in Poland’s capital, Warsaw, Modi reiterated that “this is not an era of war” and that India, rooted in the teachings of Lord Buddha, champions permanent peace.
Modi’s upcoming visit to Kyiv marks the first time an Indian prime minister will visit Ukraine since its independence in 1991. He is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss peaceful solutions to the ongoing conflict, underscoring India’s belief in dialogue as the pathway to resolution.
The visit comes just weeks after Modi’s controversial trip to Moscow, which drew criticism from the United States and some Western allies. However, Modi clarified India’s diplomatic position, stating that today’s India seeks to maintain close ties with all nations, reflecting a policy shift from its historical stance of maintaining distance.
Modi highlighted India’s global humanitarian efforts, recalling how India was among the first nations to offer help during global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when it supplied vaccines and medicines to over 150 countries. He also stressed India’s focus on quality manufacturing and manpower as crucial elements of the global supply chain, a priority reflected in the 2024 Budget, which emphasizes youth skilling and job creation.
During his speech, Modi paid tribute to the strong ties between India and Poland, recalling Poland’s assistance during the 2001 Gujarat earthquake and acknowledging the historic bond between the two nations. He announced the launch of the Jam Saheb Memorial Youth Action program, inviting 20 Polish youths annually to visit India, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Modi also visited the Monte Cassino memorial, honoring the thousands of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. He underscored that India’s 21st-century journey is one of development, deeply rooted in its values and heritage, and highlighted the strong democratic tradition shared by India and Poland.
Modi concluded by expressing gratitude to the people of Poland for their warm welcome and the Polish government’s support during Operation Ganga, especially for granting visa waivers to Indian citizens. He also praised the achievements of the Polish Kabaddi team, symbolizing the deepening cultural ties between the two nations.
