In a significant development, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called upon China and India to actively participate in finding a solution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This call echoes a previous statement made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had identified India, Brazil, and China as potential intermediaries in the conflict.
Meloni’s remarks, delivered during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the northern Italian city of Cernobbio, underscored the importance of international involvement in resolving the conflict. She emphasized that while China and India have a critical role to play, it is crucial not to abandon Ukraine to its fate.
Reaffirming Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine, Meloni stated that her government’s decision to aid Kyiv is in alignment with Italy’s national interests. This unwavering commitment aligns with the sentiment expressed by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, who has repeatedly emphasized the need for international support to overcome the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
Earlier this week, during a panel discussion at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, Putin had identified India, Brazil, and China as potential mediators. He highlighted his ongoing communication with these countries, emphasizing the trust and confidence built over time. He expressed hope that these countries, given their strong relations with Russia, would be willing to contribute towards a peaceful resolution.
This call for mediation comes amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv last month, conveying to Zelenskyy that both Ukraine and Russia should engage in dialogue without delay to end the war. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to peace and its willingness to play an active role in restoring peace in the region.
Modi’s visit to Kyiv was significant, marking the first by an Indian prime minister since Ukraine’s independence in 1991. It followed a summit meeting with Russian President Putin in Moscow, demonstrating India’s balanced approach to the conflict.
The recent calls for mediation from both Italy and Russia underscore the growing international recognition of the need for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. With both China and India having strong relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, their active involvement could potentially contribute to de-escalation and pave the way for negotiations.
