New Delhi: US President Joe Biden has praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his recent “message of peace and ongoing humanitarian support” for Ukraine during a phone call on Monday.
This call follows Modi’s visit to Kyiv on August 23, which was seen by many as a strategic diplomatic move, particularly after his controversial trip to Russia last month that elicited criticism from the Biden administration and some Western capitals.
During his visit to Ukraine, Modi highlighted the importance of dialogue between Ukraine and Russia to resolve the conflict and offered India’s readiness to play an “active role” in peace efforts.
In a statement on ‘X,’ President Biden confirmed the call, stating, “I spoke with Prime Minister Modi about his recent visits to Poland and Ukraine. I commended him for his peace message and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.” He added that they reaffirmed their mutual commitment to fostering peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
This discussion marked the first interaction between Biden and Modi since the latter’s trips to Russia, Poland, and Ukraine, as well as recent developments in Bangladesh. According to the White House, the leaders reviewed Modi’s historic visits to Poland and Ukraine—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in decades—and discussed the upcoming United Nations General Assembly meetings in September.
The President also highlighted Modi’s strong message of peace and support for Ukraine’s energy sector. Additionally, both leaders addressed the situation in Bangladesh, emphasising the need for restoring law and order and ensuring the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus.
They also reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation in multilateral forums, including the Quad.
The call underscored the ongoing progress in the India-US partnership, with both leaders aiming to advance their collaboration for the benefit of their nations and the global community.
