Prime Minister’s Visit to Ukraine

Syllabus: GS2/IR

Context

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a State Visit to Ukraine.

About

• The “landmark” visit is the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Ukraine became independent in 1991.
• Both Leaders expressed mutual interest in working towards elevating bilateral relations from a comprehensive partnership to a strategic partnership in the future.
• The visit saw the signing of four agreements.
  • The four agreements include humanitarian assistance by India for high-capacity development projects, cooperation in agriculture and food industry, cultural cooperation and an agreement on drug quality and regulation.
• The fact that the PM visited Russia on July 8-9 to meet the Russian President and followed it up with a visit to Ukraine puts him in a unique position of developing direct contact between the leaders. 

India’s Position on Russia-Ukraine War

• India chose to distance itself from the US-led Western bloc’s position of imposing sanctions on Russia, but it also expressed “heartbreaking” concern at the killing of innocent children. 
• India has conveyed to Russia that “this is not the era of war”.
  • This signalled that India doesn’t turn a blind eye to Russian actions and that didn’t go unnoticed by the Western bloc.
• India firmly believes Russia and Ukraine need to talk to each other, and not talk at each other — to put an end to the war. 

Significance of the Visit

• Historical Importance: This visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Ukraine post its independence, signalling a clear intent to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance cooperation between the two countries.
• Diplomatic Balancing Act: Amidst tensions between Russia and the West, India is positioning itself as a key player capable of engaging with both sides, thereby enhancing its diplomatic leverage.
• Influence on the Global South: Ukraine hopes that India’s willingness to hear Ukraine’s case and contribute to the peace efforts will help turn the political tide in the Global South that has stood apart from the war, despite its massive economic consequences.
• Diplomatic space: PM’s visit to Ukraine is a signal that India will no longer be a passive by-stander in a conflict that is reshaping the world.
  • It underlines India’s determination to actively shape the major European and global war of the times. 
• Navigating Complex Geopolitics: The visit demonstrates India’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical waters, balancing its relationships with Russia, Ukraine, and Western nations. 

Overview of India-Ukraine Relations

• The Government of India recognized the Republic of Ukraine as a sovereign country in 1991 and established diplomatic relations in 1992.
• Commerce and Trade Relations: Bilateral trade between the two countries has grown significantly in the last 25 years, reaching US $ 3.386 billion in 2021-22.
• Humanitarian Assistance: Taking into account the humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, India decided to extend humanitarian Assistance to Ukraine and neighbouring countries.
• Support in International Forums: India has generally supported Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in international forums. Ukraine has appreciated India’s balanced approach in global politics.

Challenges and Tensions

• Concerns Over Recent Moscow Visit: Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Russia has drawn criticism from Ukraine.
  • This may continue to cast a shadow over the current visit, raising questions about India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its ability to maintain impartiality.
• Neutrality vs. Explicit Support: While India has reiterated its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, its stance of neutrality and reluctance to explicitly condemn Russia’s actions remains a contentious issue.
  • This ambiguity may affect India’s credibility and its ability to influence the international community on matters of sovereignty and aggression. 

Conclusion

• PM Modi’s visits to Ukraine reflect India’s strategic balancing act in a complex geopolitical landscape. 
• By engaging with both countries, India aims to strengthen its bilateral relations while maintaining its independent stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict. 
• The outcomes of these visits will likely shape India’s diplomatic trajectory in the region and further its role as a key player in global peace and stability efforts.

Source: TH