PM Modi and President Zelenskyy Sign 4 MoUs; Focus on Bilateral Ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a delegation-level meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine. During the meeting, four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed and exchanged in the presence of both leaders. These MoUs aim to strengthen bilateral relations in various sectors, including community development projects in Ukraine, drug control standards, cultural exchange, and agriculture.

Briefing the media on the Prime Minister’s visit to Ukraine, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar said discussions were devoted to bilateral relations, trade, economic issues, defence, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. He said both the leaders discussed the conflict in Ukraine. Dr. Jaishankar said it is India’s view that two sides need to engage with each other to find the solution. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the need for sincere and practical engagement between all the stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that have broad acceptability and contribute towards early restoration of peace. He said Prime Minister Modi also reiterated India’s willingness to contribute in all possible ways to the early return of peace.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv from Poland via a special train. Upon his arrival, he was warmly welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora. Accompanied by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Modi visited the multimedia martyrology exhibition on children at the National Museum of History of Ukraine in Kyiv. Both leaders paid tribute to the memory of the children.

Prime Minister Modi was deeply moved by the poignant exhibition dedicated to children who lost their lives in the conflict. Expressing his sorrow over the tragic loss of young lives, he placed a toy in their memory as a mark of respect. During his visit to Kyiv, Mr. Modi also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by laying a wreath at his statue. He emphasized the enduring relevance of Gandhi's message of peace in fostering a harmonious society and highlighted how his teachings offer solutions to current global challenges. This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992.