Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his visit to Poland emphasised the importance of peace in a speech to the Indian community in Poland. He stressed that this is not a time for war and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for a peaceful resolution to Russia's invasion during his upcoming visit to Ukraine.

"India is the land of Lord Buddha's legacy. Therefore, India does not believe in war and advocates for peace in this region. India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. India's concept is clear: this is not an era of war, and it is the time to unite to tackle the biggest challenges of humanity. Thus, India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict," PM Modi said.

Notably, PM Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Poland in 45 years, and the first ever to visit Ukraine.

PM Modi stated that India's approach now is to have closer relationships with all countries, in contrast to its former policy of maintaining distance from all.

"For decades, India had a policy to maintain distance from all the countries. However, the policy of today's India is to have equal closeness with all countries. The India of today 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," he said.

Prime Minister, who recently also visited Russia, has been reiterating his stand for a peaceful solution for the Ukraine-Russia crisis. His Ukraine visit will be the first by an Indian PM since the country became independent in 1991.

"We are proud that today, the world respects India as 'Vishwabandhu'. You also feel the same here. My information is correct, right? he asked the crowd. The enthusiastic audience responded yes.

Addressing Indian community members in Poland's Warsaw, PM Modi stated, "Today itself I got the opportunity to pay tribute at Monte Cassino Memorial. This memorial reminds us of the sacrifice of thousands of Indian soldiers. This is proof of how Indians have performed their duty in every corner of the world."

ALSO READ: Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder: IMA Presses Nadda For Central Law On Medic Protection, SC To Resume Hearing On Thursday

"India of the 21st century is moving ahead on the path of development while priding itself on its values and heritage. Today, the world knows India for feats that our country has proved to the world. We Indians are known for our efforts, actions and empathy. Wherever we go, we Indians can be seen making maximum efforts. Be it entrepreneurship, caregivers or our service sector, Indians are bringing laurels to the country through their efforts," he added.