Prime Minister Modi's historic visit to Poland and Ukraine
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Reason for discussion
The Prime Minister of India recently visited Ukraine and Poland, which was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years and the first visit to Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992.
Highlights of Poland and Ukraine travel
India - Poland
- Strengthening bilateral relations
India and Poland celebrated the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, on which the two countries agreed to upgrade their relations to the level of "strategic partnership", reflecting their strong ties and shared commitment to enhance cooperation.
- Broadening European relations
India's visit to Poland focuses on deepening ties with European countries beyond traditional partners like Germany, France and the UK.
- Five Year Action Plan
To advance the strategic partnership, the two nations have agreed to implement a five-year action plan for 2024-2028, prioritizing key areas of cooperation.
The scheme will focus on these key areas –
- Climate and technology
Partnerships on sustainable technologies, clean energy solutions and space exploration.
- Transportation and communication
Increasing transport infrastructure and expanding flight connectivity.
- Counter Terrorism
Strengthening its commitment to combating terrorism and terrorist financing, as well as advocating for the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).
India - Ukraine
- Signing of agreements
Four important agreements covering agriculture, food industry, medical product regulation and cultural cooperation were signed. The purpose of these agreements is to increase cooperation in these areas and strengthen bilateral relations.
- Donate Bhishma Cubes
India gifted Ukraine four Bharat Swasthya Sahyog Hit Aur Maitri Pahal (Bhishma) cubes designed to provide emergency medical care through mobile hospitals under Project Arogya Maitri.
- International engagement
Ukraine's participation in programs like Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 and Raisina Dialogue 2024 was acknowledged and appreciated.
- Commitment to international law
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to uphold international law, including respect for sovereignty, and emphasized the importance of continued bilateral dialogue.
- Peace Summit
Ukraine welcomed India's participation in the Road to Peace Summit 2024, where the Joint Communiqué on Peace would serve as a basis for future initiatives.
- Food security
Emphasis is placed on the importance of global food security and ensuring uninterrupted supply of agricultural products, particularly in Asia and Africa.
- Expansion of collaboration
The two countries discussed strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and technology, as well as exploring new opportunities in green energy and manufacturing.
Challenges of India-Poland and India-Ukraine relations
India - Poland
- Limited financial contact
Despite the potential, bilateral trade remains modest. Absence of direct air connectivity between the two countries and limited awareness of market opportunities hinder deep economic engagement.
- Geopolitical factors
Poland's alliance with the European Union and NATO is sometimes at odds with India's independent foreign policy, particularly in relation to its relationship with Russia, which can pose diplomatic challenges.
India - Ukraine
- Russia-Ukraine conflict
The ongoing war has strained India's relations with Ukraine and its Western allies.
- Restrictions and trade
India has decided not to participate in Western sanctions against Russia, instead increasing its purchases of subsidized Russian fuel.
- Supply chain challenges
The conflict has disrupted supply chains for critical defense equipment.
Next step
- Balanced approach
India should carefully manage its stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, maintaining its strategic relationship with Russia, while expressing support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
- Strategic independence
By insisting on strategic autonomy and non-alignment, India can avoid getting involved in geopolitical conflicts that are not aligned with its national interests.
- Humanitarian aid
Strengthening ties with Ukraine through humanitarian aid, including medical aid and reconstruction efforts, could enhance bilateral ties.
- The role of mediation
India can explore opportunities for mediation between Russia and Ukraine using its positive relations with both countries to contribute to conflict resolution.
