 "India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. File Photo")
India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, is set to attend a BRICS meeting in Moscow on September 10-11, 2024. This high-profile conclave of national security advisers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa comes at a crucial time, amid growing international calls for a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Doval’s visit, following recent diplomatic engagements by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in both Moscow and Kyiv, highlights India’s potential role in mediating peace and advancing dialogue in the region. Here are 7 things you need to know about this meeting:
1. Purpose: The main goal of Doval’s meeting in Moscow is to discuss strategies for peace in the Ukraine conflict amid increased calls for dialogue.
2. Background: Doval’s visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent trips to Moscow and Kyiv. Modi’s visits in July and August have sparked discussions about India’s potential role in mediating the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Yesterday, Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni told press that India could play a major role in resolving Russia-Ukraine conflict. This statement came after a meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
3. Upcoming visits: In addition to the current visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to attend the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, in October. This summit will bring together top leaders from the BRICS nations.
4. Expected dicussions: During his visit, Doval is anticipated to meet with his Russian counterpart to explore ways to advance peace efforts. India is waiting for signals from both Russia and Ukraine regarding its potential involvement in mediation.
5. Ukraine’s Perspective: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed a desire for India to actively support Ukraine rather than merely balancing relations with both Moscow and Kyiv. Zelenskyy has called for India to play a more decisive role in the conflict.
Impact Shorts
More Shorts6. International Calls for Mediation: Recent statements from international leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, suggest that India and China could play crucial roles in finding a resolution to the conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also mentioned India, Brazil, and China as potential intermediaries in the peace process.
7. India’s Position: India has consistently advocated for resolving the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to peace was evident during his visit to Ukraine, where he emphasized India’s readiness to support peaceful resolution efforts.