India and Ukraine strengthen bilateral ties during PM Modi’s visit
In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, India and Ukraine have identified the Cooperation (IGC) platform as a crucial tool for fostering a future-oriented economic partnership. Both nations have acknowledged the necessity to restore and expand trade relations, which have suffered since 2022 due to the ongoing conflict. Efforts are being made to dismantle trade barriers and promote joint ventures.
A recent highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ukrainian State Service on Medicines and Drugs Control. This agreement, coupled with the latest meeting of the Joint Working Group on Pharmaceutical Cooperation, underscores both sides’ commitment to enhancing market access and investment in the pharmaceutical sector.
Expanding the legal framework of bilateral relations was also emphasized, particularly in areas such as mutual protection of investments and recognition of educational qualifications.
Defense Cooperation to Intensify
Defense ties between the two nations are set to strengthen as both leaders pledged to enhance collaboration between their defense entities. This includes joint manufacturing ventures in India and cooperation in emerging defense technologies. The second meeting of the Indian-Ukrainian Joint Working Group on Military-Technical Cooperation, which operates under the 2012 Defense Cooperation Agreement, is scheduled to occur in India soon.
Cultural and Educational Initiatives
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges remain central to the India-Ukraine relationship. Leaders have endorsed a bilateral Programme of Cultural Cooperation and plans for cultural festivals in both countries. Scholarships under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme and the General Cultural Scholarship Scheme were also highlighted as key initiatives.
The role of the Indian diaspora in Ukraine was acknowledged as instrumental in strengthening these connections. The Indian government expressed gratitude for Ukraine’s support during the evacuation of Indian students in 2022 and has requested continued assistance in facilitating visa and registration processes for Indian nationals.
Collaborative Efforts in Reconstruction and Global Governance
Discussions also covered potential Indian involvement in Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery efforts. Both nations condemned terrorism and emphasized increased cooperation to combat extremism while adhering to international law and the UN Charter.
The need for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council was discussed, with Ukraine reaffirming its support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed council. Additionally, India looks forward to Ukraine’s participation in the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
