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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent back-to-back visits to Russia and Ukraine have highlighted India's evolving role in the global political landscape. These visits, while strategically distinct, have been interpreted as a testament to India's ability to maintain strong relations with both sides of a global conflict, showcasing its rising geopolitical stature. A former Singaporean diplomat, Professor Kishore Mahbubani, has lauded Prime Minister Modi's actions, stating that India has 'arrived as a major geopolitical actor.' This assertion is further underlined by the warm receptions Modi received in both Moscow and Kyiv, a feat few world leaders can claim amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The significance of these visits extends beyond the individual interactions. The Prime Minister's journey to Russia in July aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and reaffirming India's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. During his meeting with President Putin, Modi reiterated India's stance on seeking a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy, while emphasizing the importance of engagement between both Russia and Ukraine. The subsequent visit to Ukraine, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since the country's formation in 1991, was a testament to India's commitment to maintaining good relations with the international community, even amidst challenging geopolitical complexities. President Volodymyr Zelensky, acknowledging the visit's historical significance, signed four documents with India, covering a wide range of issues.
Professor Mahbubani has also expressed the potential for India to play an even more substantial role in global affairs if granted a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He believes that such a position would empower India to take a more active and influential role in creating a better world. India's bid for a permanent UNSC seat has received support from several nations, including Russia, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom. However, China's opposition continues to be a significant hurdle. The success of India's bid hinges on overcoming this obstacle, which would enable the nation to leverage its increasing diplomatic influence on the global stage.
Source: India Now A Major Geopolitical Actor: Ex-Singapore Diplomat On PM's Russia-Ukraine Visit