Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a significant address to the Indian diaspora in Warsaw, emphasized India's commitment to peace in Ukraine, stressing diplomacy over conflict. During his historic visit to Poland, he honored the nations' shared past at memorials and highlighted economic and cultural ties. Modi's inclusive approach and aid efforts were praised, with plans for a social security agreement. His upcoming visit to Ukraine aims to bolster cooperation and peace, showcasing India's dedication to global harmony and diplomacy.
In a remarkable display of India's commitment to global peace and diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a historic visit to Poland and Ukraine, underscoring the nation's steadfast stance on the volatile situation in the region.
Addressing the vibrant Indian diaspora in Poland's capital Warsaw, PM Modi struck a unifying note, emphasizing that "Today's India wants to connect with all. Today's India talks about the development of all. Today's India is with all and thinks about the interests of all." This sentiment echoed India's longstanding tradition of fostering close ties with nations across the world, a departure from the country's previous posture of maintaining distance.
Recalling the remarkable humanitarian gesture of the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar, who provided refuge to over 1,000 Polish children who had escaped the Soviet Union, PM Modi paid tribute at the memorial plaque for the Valivade-Kolhapur camp near the Monte Casino War Memorial. "This memorial is a tribute to the great Royal Family of Kolhapur...(which) was at the forefront of giving shelter to Polish women and children displaced due to the horrors of World War II," the Prime Minister said, underscoring India's rich history of compassion and global unity.
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated India's stance of advocating for "permanent peace" in the region, stating that "this isn't an era of war. This is the time to come together against those challenges which threaten humanity." Emphasizing India's belief in "diplomacy and dialogues," the Prime Minister's message of peace and resolute opposition to the ongoing hostilities resonated across the world, with his remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin even making it to the G20 communique in 2023.
"Today's India wants to connect with all. Today's India talks about the development of all. Today's India is with all and thinks about the interests of all," Modi said.
Reiterating his stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi said that the present era is not that of war, adding that India believes in "diplomacy and dialogues".
"India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. Our stand is very clear - this isn't an era of war. This is the time to come together against those challenges which threaten humanity. Therefore, India believes in diplomacy and dialogues," he said.
He said that India follows Buddha’s tradition of "peace not war".
"Empathy is one of the identities of Indians. Whenever any trouble mounts in any country, India is the first country to extend help ... when Covid hit the world, India said humanity first," he said.
Ahead of his visit to Ukraine, PM Modi expressed his eagerness to "build upon earlier conversations with President Zelensky on strengthening bilateral cooperation and share perspectives on peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict." This commitment to dialogue and finding diplomatic solutions underscores India's unwavering belief in the power of diplomacy to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Furthermore, PM Modi lauded the Polish government for its humanitarian efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indian students caught in the conflict, stating, "You people helped the Indian students who were struck in Ukraine. The Polish government removed the visa restrictions for Indian students. Poland opened their doors for our students ... today, I want to congratulate you all, the Poland government and the people, on behalf of 140 crore Indians. I salute you all."
This visit to Poland and Ukraine, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 45 years, serves as a testament to India's growing global influence and its commitment to fostering stronger ties with strategic partners. As PM Modi said, "My visit to Poland comes as we mark 70 years of our diplomatic relations. Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe. Our mutual commitment to democracy and pluralism further reinforces our relationship."
With a focus on strengthening economic cooperation, enhancing cultural exchanges, and promoting enduring peace, this historic visit promises to pave the way for a new era of India's global engagement, cementing the nation's status as a responsible and influential player on the world stage.
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