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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi supported efforts to achieve a sustainable and lasting peace in Ukraine, which should be based on the principles of the UN Charter and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As Ukrinform reports, this is stated in the joint statement of the parties, which was adopted during the first-ever visit to New Delhi by the College of the European Commission. The full text of the document is published on the European Commission website.
"The leaders discussed key international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine. They spoke out in favor of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on respect for international law, the principles of the UN Charter, territorial integrity and sovereignty," the document says.
The President of the European Commission and the Prime Minister of India also reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful solution to the Middle East conflict based on the two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, within recognized borders, in accordance with international law.
“Peace, security and prosperity are indivisible in this world. In Europe, Russia seeks to tear Ukraine apart, and we must be clear about what is at stake. Failure in Ukraine could not only weaken Europe, but also increase challenges in other parts of the world, not least in this region. Other countries are watching very closely whether invading a neighbor and violating international borders will go unpunished or whether there are real levers of deterrence for this,” von der Leyen said during a visit to New Delhi.
She emphasized that Europe has taken historic steps to support Ukraine and its future.
"We want any peace talks to lead to a just and lasting peace, with a free and prosperous Ukraine that can join the European family. And Europe is ready to take responsibility when it comes to security and defense. We will increase defense spending to ensure that Member States have access to the full range of capabilities that this new reality requires. But we also want to step up cooperation with important partners like India," the President of the European Commission emphasized.
She noted that the EU is considering developing a future security and defence partnership with India, similar to the partnerships it already has with other countries in the region, including Japan and South Korea. Such efforts would help to step up work to counter common threats, whether it be international terrorism, maritime security challenges, cyberattacks or sabotage against critical infrastructure.
Von der Leyen welcomed India's interest in joining defense industry development projects within the framework of the EU's Permanent Structured Cooperation, and expressed confidence that the parties will be able to join forces in the development of modern technological sectors, including cybersecurity, space, and drone production.
"It is not only about stability in our regions. It is also a key part of strengthening our economic security and, ultimately, our prosperity. And that is why security must be a core part of our new strategic partnership with India," the President of the European Commission emphasized.
Photo: PTI
