Jaishankar Highlights India-Russia Relations and Ukraine Conflict

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said that Russia stood by India in several ways at a time when the country's security and territorial integrity faced challenges. Speaking at the 62nd Munich Security Conference in New Delhi, he said India's relations with Russia were shaped in many ways by this historical legacy.

Dr. Jaishankar said that at a time when much of the world preferred backing a military regime in India's neighbourhood, Russia maintained strong relations with India. He said the bilateral relationship has since expanded beyond its historical foundations and now also has a significant economic dimension.

According to the External Affairs Minister, India-Russia ties include cooperation in defence, nuclear energy and space, along with substantial trade and investment between the two countries.

India's Position on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Describing the Russia-Ukraine conflict as unfortunate, Dr. Jaishankar said India's position has been clear that the conflict should come to an end. He said India believes that dialogue, diplomacy and negotiations are necessary to achieve this.

Dr. Jaishankar said that in recent months India has become somewhat more involved in efforts beyond advocacy. He said India has held discussions with both Russia and Ukraine and is trying to contribute constructively, beginning with the issue of safe shipping in the Black Sea.