On Wednesday, Ukraine Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha voiced his nation's call for peace and a conclusion to the current war against Russia by the end of this year.
During the "Ukraine India: From Comprehensive to Strategic Partnership" conference, conducted by the World Trade Centre, the All India Association of India, and the Embassy of Ukraine, Sybiha noted the significance of international support, especially from India.
He said, "Thanks to the international support, particularly from India, we were able to raise our voice and express our stand. We are waiting for a call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. We are looking for a fair, sustainable, and comprehensive peace. This Russian aggression is not only against Ukraine but affects world order, international norms, and territorial integrity."
Sybiha continued to stress Ukraine's dedication to a ceasefire. "Ukraine has agreed to the proposal of a ceasefire without conditions. This is not just important for wider possibilities but also for commercial opportunities. We hope Russia agrees to this proposal without conditions too," he clarified. "We want to see peace that is fair, long-lasting, and comprehensive."
The Foreign Minister also indicated that the war's end would open up great opportunities. "There is huge potential, and traditionally, India and Ukraine have had close relations. We are keen to develop our bilateral relations, with India's role being especially significant. We want to further develop these relations," Sybiha said.
Sybiha, during the event, opened Ukraine's new Consulate in Mumbai, referring to it as a step in the right direction towards enhancing bilateral relations and trade between India and Ukraine. He added, "It is no coincidence that today, a consignment of apples from Ukraine has reached Mumbai Harbour. In spite of the ongoing war, we have succeeded in doing this."
He went on to say, "Successfully enforcing the ceasefire would assist in restoring freedom, which is vital for our bilateral trade. It would also support the freedom of navigation."
Sybiha also pointed out the huge scope for Indian companies to engage in the reconstruction of Ukraine. "Russian missile attacks have inflicted heavy damage on our infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, amounting to $600 billion in losses. We will need huge assistance for reconstruction, and there are plenty of opportunities for Indian companies to be involved in this huge reconstruction process," he said.
The Minister reasserted that Ukraine is confident that peace can be achieved with the help of India, highlighting that the path to peace continues to be a priority.
During another session at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Sybiha confirmed that although Ukraine desires a peaceful resolution of the conflict, it will not compromise its territorial integrity. He also had confidence that a lasting and just peace could be obtained under US leadership, especially under the leadership of President Trump. Sybiha pointed out that Ukraine is not against peace initiatives and has already accepted a 30-day ceasefire offer with Russia, emphasizing that such a peace would be in the interest of the world.
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