(ANSA-AFP) - KYIV, AUG 23 - Indian Prime Minister Narendra
Modi used a historic visit to Kyiv on Friday to reiterate his
call for a peaceful end to the war between Ukraine and Russia.
Modi's visit comes at a dramatic moment in the
two-and-a-half-year conflict, with a diplomatic settlement
appearing more elusive than ever. "We have stayed away from the
war with great conviction. This does not mean that we were
indifferent," Modi told reporters, while seated alongside
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. "We were not neutral from
day one, we have taken a side, and we stand firmly for peace."
Modi also pledged his country to humanitarian support for
Ukraine's conflict with Russia, historically a close strategic
ally of India. "Whatever help is required from a humanitarian
standpoint, India will always stand with you and will go above
and beyond to support you," Modi said. Modi began his tour of
Kyiv by accompanying Zelensky to an exhibit commemorating
children who have died in the war. "I realised that the first
casualty of war is in fact innocent children," Modi said. "And
that is truly heartbreaking." (ANSA-AFP).
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