Von der Leyen, Modi support sustainable peace in Ukraine based on UN Charter

As reported by Ukrinform, this was stated in a joint declaration published during the first visit of the head of the European Commission to New Delhi. The full text of the document is available on the website of the European Commission.

“The two leaders also discussed major international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the conflict in Ukraine. They expressed support for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine based on respect for international law, the principles of the UN Charter, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the document states.

Von der Leyen and Modi also reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the Middle East, seeking a two-state solution that allows Israel and Palestine to live in peace and security within internationally recognized borders.

“Peace, security and prosperity are interconnected in our world. In the ERA, Russia’s goal is to divide Ukraine. And we must be clear about what is at stake. A failed Ukraine will not only weaken the ERA. And that is why we have taken historic steps to support Ukraine and its future. But a failed Ukraine will also exacerbate problems in other parts of the world. Not least in this region. Other countries around the world are watching closely to see whether there will be impunity for invading a neighboring country or for crossing international borders. Or whether there are real deterrents,” von der Leyen said during her visit to New Delhi.

She stressed that Er has taken historic steps in support of 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 become part of the Eure family. And Eure is ready to take responsibility for security and defense. We will increase our defense spending to ensure that member states have access to the full range of capabilities needed in this new reality. But we also want to strengthen cooperation with important partners like India,” the Eure President emphasized.

Von der Leyen noted that the EU is considering future security and defence partnerships with India, similar to existing partnerships with Japan and South Korea. These efforts would enhance cooperation on common security challenges, including international terrorism, maritime security threats, cyber-attacks and sabotage of critical infrastructure.

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She welcomed India's interest in participating in EU defence industrial development projects under the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) initiative. She also expressed confidence that both sides could contribute to the development of modern technology sectors, including cybersecurity, space technology and drone manufacturing.

“This is not only about stability in our regions. But it is also a key aspect of strengthening our economic security and, ultimately, our prosperity. And that is why security must be a core element of our new strategic partnership with India,” von der Leyen concluded.

As previously reported, on 27-28 March, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, together with the Group of Commissioners of the European Commission, will visit New Delhi to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the EU and India in the areas of economy, trade and security.