In talks with President Putin, PM Modi reiterates call for dialogue, diplomacy to resolve Ukraine crisis

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to find a solution to the Ukraine conflict as he spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over phone.

In their talks, the two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the prime minster’s office (PMO) said, adding that Putin informed Modi about the recent developments in Russia.

“While discussing the situation in Ukraine, PM reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy,” it said. Russia has been engaged in a conflict with Ukraine for over a year, with the western world rallying against Putin over the war.

Both leaders agreed to remain in touch and continue to make efforts to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

The telephonic conversation between the two leaders took place days before the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on July 4 which they will attend virtually along with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders.