• Source:JND
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a phone conversation with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, during which the two leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and ways to promote peace. Stubb briefed Modi on the outcome of recent meetings in Washington involving leaders from Europe, the United States and Ukraine on possible steps towards resolving the war.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi reaffirmed India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way forward for ending the conflict. He stressed India’s support for early peace and stability in the region.

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The two leaders also reviewed the state of India–Finland ties. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in advanced areas such as quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, 6G, cybersecurity and sustainable development. Modi invited Stubb to visit India, while the Finnish President reiterated his country’s backing for the early conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement. He also assured Finland’s support for the AI Impact Summit to be hosted by India in 2026.

Russia–Ukraine War

The Russia–Ukraine war, which began in 2022, has now entered its fourth year without a clear resolution. Former US President Donald Trump recently attempted to broker peace, first by hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska and later by meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy along with European leaders in Washington. However, Moscow remains reluctant to agree to direct talks with Kyiv.

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In recent weeks, both Putin and Zelenskyy have separately reached out to Modi. The Indian Prime Minister has consistently conveyed New Delhi’s stand of supporting all peace efforts. On August 18, Putin called Modi to brief him on his discussions with Trump in Alaska. The talks are seen as significant, especially in light of Trump’s decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff on India over Russian oil trade.