Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the eve of his historic visit to Ukraine, delivered a powerful message from Warsaw, Poland, emphasising the importance of peace and diplomacy in resolving global conflicts. Addressing the Indian diaspora in the Polish capital, PM Modi underscored India’s longstanding commitment to peace and reiterated his stance that “this is not an era of war.”
During his speech, PM Modi reflected on India’s evolving foreign policy. He mentioned that for decades, India had maintained a policy of distancing itself from other countries. However, he emphasised that the India of today seeks to build close relationships with all nations. “Today’s India wants to connect with all. Today’s India talks about the development of all. Today’s India is with all and thinks about the interests of all,” PM Modi said, as the crowd chanted his name in support.
This statement aligns with India’s broader international stance, particularly its balanced approach to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. PM Modi’s upcoming visit to Ukraine, at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelensky, marks a significant shift in India’s diplomatic engagements, as it will be the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since its independence in 1991.
PM Modi’s speech in Warsaw was heavily focused on peace and the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. He reiterated that India, as a land that follows the teachings of Buddha, inherently believes in peace over war. “Empathy is one of the identities of Indians,” PM Modi stated, highlighting India’s humanitarian efforts across the globe.
Referring to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, PM Modi stressed, “India is an advocate of peace in this region and it is clear that this is not the time for war. We need to be together to fight challenges. India focuses on diplomacy and dialogue.” This message is expected to resonate strongly during his visit to Kyiv, especially given the timing, just weeks after his controversial visit to Russia where he met with President Vladimir Putin.
PM Modi also took the opportunity to highlight India’s global humanitarian efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned that India was one of the first countries to respond to global emergencies, sending medicines and vaccines to over 150 countries. “Wherever there is an earthquake or any disaster in the world, India has only one mantra: Humanity first. If there is a war, India says – Humanity first and in this spirit, India helps the citizens all over the world,” he added.
PM Modi also expressed his deep gratitude to the Polish government and the Indian community in Poland for their support during the early days of the Russia-Ukraine war. He recalled how the Polish government removed visa restrictions for Indian students who were stranded in Ukraine, and how the local Indian community opened their homes and organised langars to support those in need.
“You people helped the Indian students who were stuck in Ukraine. We all have witnessed it. You helped them a lot. You all opened your home doors for them, organised langar. Polish government removed the visa restrictions for Indian students. Poland, with their whole heart, opened their doors for our students. Today also when I meet Indian students who have returned from Ukraine, they praise you all and the Polish government,” PM Modi said, expressing his heartfelt thanks on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.
During his address, PM Modi also took pride in India’s democratic credentials, calling India not just the mother of democracy but also a vibrant and participatory one. He referred to the recent general elections in India, the world’s largest democratic exercise, which saw more than 640 million voters participate.
“India is not only the Mother of democracy, but it is also a participatory and vibrant democracy. The people of India have unwavering faith in democracy. We have seen this confidence in recent elections also. This was the biggest election in history,” he said, highlighting the trust and efficiency with which the Indian electoral system operates.
In his speech, PM Modi also touched upon the historical ties between India and Poland, recalling the contribution of Jam Saheb of Nawanagar, Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, who is remembered in Poland as the “Good Maharaja.” During World War II, Jam Saheb had opened his doors to thousands of Polish women and children seeking refuge, a gesture that has left a lasting impression on Polish-Indian relations.
“Jam Saheb is still remembered as ‘Dobry or Good Maharaja’ in Poland. During World War II, when Poland faced difficulties, when thousands of women and children from Poland were wandering from place to place for shelter, Jam Saheb, Digvijay Singh Ranjit Singh Jadeja ji came forward. He had built a special camp for Polish women and children and he told the women and children of the camp that just as the people of Nava Nagar call me Bapu, I am your Bapu too,” PM Modi recounted.
PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine is expected to be closely watched globally, especially given the ongoing conflict and India’s unique position as a nation that maintains strong ties with both Russia and the West.
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