PM Modi visits Kyiv, pays tribute to Ukrainian children lost in conflict

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was the central topic of their discussions. Emphasizing the need for peace, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “We also had discussions about the ongoing conflict. It is of topmost importance that peace be maintained. A peaceful solution to the conflict is best for humanity.”

| Updated: 23 August, 2024 8:18 pm IST

NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Kyiv, Ukraine after concluding his visit to Warsaw. This historic visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine.

PM Modi was welcomed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Mariinsky Palace. This significant meeting marked a moment of solidarity between the two nations amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy began their day by paying their respects at the Martyrologist Exposition at the National Museum of History of Ukraine.

The multimedia exhibition poignantly commemorates the children who have tragically lost their lives in the wake of the Russian invasion.

Moved by the solemnity of the occasion, Prime Minister Modi placed a toy at the memorial, symbolizing his deep sorrow and respect for the young lives lost.

In a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, Prime Minister Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the profound impact of the conflict on children.

“Conflict is particularly devastating for young children. My heart goes out to the families of children who lost their lives, and I pray that they find the strength to endure their grief,” he shared on his official social media account.

President Zelenskyy, who accompanied Prime Minister Modi during the visit, also took to social media, expressing the importance of safeguarding children in every nation.

“Today in Kyiv, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and I honored the memory of the children whose lives were taken by Russian aggression. Children in every country deserve to live in safety. We must make this possible,” Zelenskyy stated.

The leaders then held comprehensive discussions on various aspects of bilateral relations. Following these talks, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “President @ZelenskyyUa and I had very productive discussions in Kyiv today. India is eager to deepen economic linkages with Ukraine. We discussed ways to boost cooperation in agriculture, technology, pharma, and other such sectors. We also agreed to further cement cultural linkages.”

President @ZelenskyyUa and I had very productive discussions in Kyiv today. India is eager to deepen economic linkages with Ukraine. We discussed ways to boost cooperation in agriculture, technology, pharma and other such sectors. We also agreed to further cement cultural… pic.twitter.com/EOrRyHeNX7

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2024

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was the central topic of their discussions. Emphasizing the need for peace, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “We also had discussions about the ongoing conflict. It is of topmost importance that peace be maintained. A peaceful solution to the conflict is best for humanity.”

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by laying a floral tribute at his statue in Kyiv. Reflecting on the enduring relevance of Gandhi’s teachings, he highlighted the Mahatma’s message of peace as a guiding principle for overcoming contemporary global challenges.

“The path shown by Mahatma Gandhi offers solutions to present-day global issues,” Prime Minister Modi remarked, underscoring the importance of Gandhi’s philosophy in fostering a harmonious society. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was also the central topic of their discussions. Emphasizing the need for peace, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “We also had discussions about the ongoing conflict. It is of topmost importance that peace be maintained. A peaceful solution to the conflict is best for humanity.”