Japanese Prime Minister urges Indian PM Modi for cooperation on pressuring Russia... Agreement on the need for peaceful resolution

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida
[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, visiting India, stated that Russia's invasion of Ukraine has shaken the foundation of the international order and urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for more cooperation, including pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

According to NHK on the 20th, during a summit held on the 19th (local time) in New Delhi, India’s capital, Prime Minister Kishida discussed the Ukraine situation with Prime Minister Modi and made this appeal. However, the joint statement released after the summit did not directly condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

In the statement, the two leaders demanded an immediate cessation of violence and said there is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy for resolving the conflict. They emphasized the importance of the safety of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities and agreed to take measures to address the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

After the summit, Prime Minister Kishida told reporters that he had a lengthy and deep conversation with Prime Minister Modi about the Ukraine situation, including over dinner, explaining, "We confirmed that we cannot tolerate any attempt to change the status quo by force 'in any region.' It is necessary to seek a peaceful resolution of conflicts based on international law."

Regarding the Ukraine situation, Japan has actively participated in U.S.-led sanctions against Russia, including withdrawing Russia’s "Most Favored Nation" status in trade. On the other hand, India appears to be supporting Russia, with reports emerging that it has started importing Russian crude oil, raising concerns among Western countries.

During the meeting, the two leaders also agreed to respond to actions challenging the rules-based maritime order in the East China Sea and South China Sea. They emphasized the importance of demilitarization and restraint concerning repeated intrusions by Chinese vessels into the Senkaku Islands in the South China Sea and East China Sea. They also condemned North Korea for repeatedly launching ballistic missiles in violation of United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions and demanded North Korea’s complete denuclearization.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.