Berlin: German chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday praised India’s active role in seeking a peaceful solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Scholz is on a three-day visit to India.
Scholz highlighted the importance of India’s diplomatic relations with all parties involved in the conflict. He emphasised that India’s ongoing efforts to engage with various stakeholders are essential for advancing peace.
What German chancellor said
During his visit, Scholz expressed his support for India’s peace initiatives and applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s consistent push for a resolution to the war in Ukraine. The chancellor shared his thoughts on X stating, “I expressly support India in advocating a lasting, just peace in Ukraine and using its reliable relations with all parties to contribute to it. As partners, it is important to be able to talk directly about many topics – including geopolitical issues.”
I expressly support India in advocating a lasting, just peace in Ukraine and using its reliable relations with all parties to contribute to it.
As partners, it is important to be able to talk directly about many topics – including geopolitical issues.
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) October 25, 2024
The German leader’s statements come after appreciation for India’s diplomatic stance from global leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Just last week, Putin publicly called PM Modi a “friend” and thanked India for supporting efforts toward peace.
PM Modi had earlier informed Putin that India was ready to offer all possible assistance to end the conflict. Similarly, Italian Prime Minister Meloni expressed optimism about India’s role, suggesting that nations like India and China could help mediate the Ukraine crisis.
Scholz highlights need for political solutions
At the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business held in New Delhi, Scholz highlighted the need for political solutions grounded in international laws as the best way to address global conflicts. He stressed that such approaches are critical for protecting trade, economic stability, and prosperity worldwide.
Referring to other geopolitical concerns, Scholz pointed to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the South China Sea, and East China Sea, as well as the global dangers posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine. He said, “The Middle East remains a constant source of tension and a reminder of the human cost of division because of the world’s inability to reach political solutions.”
PM Modi reaffirms India’s commitment to peace
Following his meeting with Chancellor Scholz, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s dedication to fostering peace in conflict regions like Ukraine and West Asia. “The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia are a matter of concern for both of us. India has always believed that problems cannot be solved by war, and India is ready to make every possible contribution for the restoration of peace,” PM Modi said.
India’s diplomatic approach, focused on building connections with all parties, has positioned the nation as a potential mediator in resolving conflicts worldwide. Both Germany and other international powers recognize and commend India’s commitment to peaceful solutions and diplomacy. This visit by Scholz further strengthens the Indo-German relationship, which is increasingly focused on collaborative efforts in areas such as conflict resolution and geopolitical stability.
