S Jaishankar engages in 'useful' talks with Ukrainian counterpart

Kyiv: Following his recent five-day visit to Moscow, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a constructive conversation today with his Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, discussing bilateral cooperation and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The conversation, described as "useful" by Jaishankar, aimed at advancing bilateral ties between India and Ukraine in the upcoming year while exchanging perspectives on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Jaishankar expressed the gist of their dialogue on social media, stating, "A useful conversation with FM @DmytroKuleb of Ukraine today. Discussed advancing our bilateral cooperation in the year ahead. Exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine."

In response, Kuleba conveyed Ukraine's proposed "peace formula" and plans for the 'Global Peace Summit' of leaders to his Indian counterpart. He highlighted concerns about Russia's recent intensification of air attacks, causing civilian suffering and destruction.

"I informed my counterpart of Russia's recent escalation of terror and mass air attacks, which caused civilian suffering and destruction," Kuleba shared on social media.

The discussion encompassed potential collaboration on the "Peace Formula," aligning with Ukraine's vision for the Global Peace Summit of leaders. Kuleba revealed plans for the forthcoming first meeting of the India-Ukraine Inter-Governmental Commission, an initiative to revitalise bilateral ties, emphasising its significance in advancing comprehensive collaboration.

"We agreed to hold the first meeting of the India-Ukraine Inter-Governmental Commission in 2018 in the near future," Kuleba stated, underscoring the importance of this platform in propelling joint efforts between the two nations.

Highlighting the significance of rejuvenating this primary bilateral mechanism, Kuleba said that it would pave the way for comprehensive progress in India-Ukraine ties, setting a positive tone for future engagements.