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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has once again emphasized the importance of negotiations to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. During his speech at the Annual Ambassadors' Conference of the German Foreign Office in Berlin, Jaishankar asserted that the conflict cannot be resolved solely through military means. He stated that “We don't think this conflict is going to be resolved on the battlefield. At some stage, there's going to be some negotiation. When there is a negotiation, the main parties - Russia and Ukraine - have to be at that negotiation.” This stance echoes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prior calls for an end to the war during his visits to both Russia and Ukraine, where he stressed that “this is not an era of war.”
Jaishankar's statement reiterates India's consistent position on the conflict, advocating for a diplomatic solution and discouraging prolonged hostilities. He further clarified India's willingness to actively participate in facilitating peace talks, stating that “If you want advice, we are always willing to give it…” This offer reflects India's proactive approach to conflict resolution and its commitment to supporting a peaceful outcome. India's stance is rooted in its long-standing policy of non-alignment and its commitment to upholding international peace and security.
India's involvement in the conflict transcends mere diplomatic statements. India has maintained a neutral position throughout the conflict, abstaining from voting on UN resolutions condemning Russia's actions. This stance has been subject to criticism from some quarters, accusing India of siding with Russia. However, India has defended its position by emphasizing its focus on humanitarian aid and its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy. India has provided significant humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, including medical supplies and other necessities. Moreover, India has consistently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Beyond the Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar also addressed the growing importance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), a strategic security dialogue involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia. He highlighted the success of the Quad, emphasizing its collaborative efforts in maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, connectivity, and other areas. This underscores India's commitment to strengthening regional security partnerships and its proactive role in ensuring stability and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
In conclusion, Jaishankar's statements reflect India's unwavering commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts and its willingness to play a constructive role in bringing about peace and stability in the international arena. India's stance on the Ukraine conflict demonstrates its diplomatic finesse, prioritizing dialogue and diplomacy over confrontation. By offering its advice and actively seeking a negotiated solution, India seeks to contribute to a peaceful and sustainable end to the conflict, reaffirming its principled approach to international relations.