Introduction
The recent summit on peace in Ukraine, hosted by Switzerland, concluded with significant global attention. India, represented by Pavan Kapoor, chose not to associate with the communique emerging from the summit.
This article provides a detailed analysis of India’s position, the summit's outcomes, and the broader international context.
India’s Position at the Summit
Participation and Representation
Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, represented India at the summit held near Lucerne, Switzerland, on June 15-16, 2024.
Kapoor, India's former Ambassador to Russia, emphasized India’s intent to understand different perspectives and find sustainable resolutions to the conflict.
Official Statement
Kapoor stated, “Our participation in this summit and continued engagement with all stakeholders is with a view to understanding different perspectives, approaches, and options to find a way forward for a sustainable resolution of the conflict.”
He added, “In our view, only those options acceptable to both parties can lead to abiding peace.”
India’s Stance on the Communique
India refrained from associating with any communique or document emerging from the summit.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified, “India did not associate itself with any communiqué or document emerging from this summit.”
The MEA reiterated India’s consistent approach to facilitate lasting peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
Global Context and Summit Highlights
Summit Participants
Leaders and top officials from over 90 states attended the summit, dedicated to resolving the largest European conflict since World War II.
Swiss Federal President Viola Amherd and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky were notable attendees.
Final Communique
The final communique emphasized Ukraine’s “territorial integrity” and called for comprehensive talks to find a lasting solution.
It urged a full exchange of prisoners of war and the return of deported children.
India’s Broader Diplomatic Approach
Past Actions and Consistency
India abstained from a vote at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on a resolution titled ‘Principles of the Charter of the United Nations underlying a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine’.
India’s abstention was based on the resolution lacking “basic concepts” for achieving sustainable peace.
Continued Engagement
India affirmed its commitment to remain engaged with all stakeholders to contribute to efforts for an early and abiding peace.
The MEA stated, “India’s participation in the Summit, as well as in the preceding NSA/Political Director-level meetings based on Ukraine’s Peace Formula, was in line with our consistent approach to facilitate a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.”
Global Response and Non-Signatories
Countries Not Signing the Communique
Besides India, countries like Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Mexico, South Africa, Brazil, Armenia, Libya, Indonesia, Bahrain, Colombia, and the United Arab Emirates also refrained from signing the final communique.
Support for Ukraine
Despite some countries not signing, the summit saw a majority supporting Ukraine’s “territorial integrity” and advocating for dialogue among all parties.
Conclusion
India’s decision to not sign the communique at the Swiss summit reflects its diplomatic strategy of engaging all stakeholders to find a balanced resolution to the Ukraine conflict
By prioritizing dialogue and understanding different perspectives, India aims to contribute to sustainable peace efforts.
Summary
India’s stance at the Swiss Summit on Ukraine Peace highlights its commitment to a diplomatic and balanced approach in resolving the ongoing conflict.
Represented by Pavan Kapoor, India chose not to sign the final communique, emphasizing the need for options acceptable to both parties for lasting peace.
The summit saw widespread international participation, with a significant number of countries supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and calling for comprehensive peace talks.
This decision aligns with India’s previous actions at the UNGA and underscores its dedication to dialogue and diplomacy.
Important Names and Figures
Pavan Kapoor: Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, India
Viola Amherd: Swiss Federal President
Volodymyr Zelensky: President of Ukraine
Key Points for Understanding
India’s refusal to sign the communique is consistent with its diplomatic principles.
The summit aimed to address the largest European conflict since World War II, with broad international participation.
The final communique’s focus on territorial integrity and dialogue reflects the global consensus on finding a peaceful resolution.
(India, Swiss Summit, Ukraine Peace, Territorial Integrity, Diplomatic Efforts, Russia-Ukraine Conflict, International Relations, Pavan Kapoor, Viola Amherd, Volodymyr Zelensky, UPSC, CAPF, CDS, NDA, SSB, AFCAT, CSE, IAS, IB ACIO, Current Affairs, News)
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