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

As Ukrinform reports, this was stated in a joint declaration released during the first-ever visit of the European Commission College to New Delhi. The full text of the document was published on the European Commission’s website.

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

Von der Leyen and Modi also reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Middle East conflict based on the “two-state solution” principle, ensuring that Israel and Palestine can coexist in peace and security within internationally recognized borders.

“Peace, security and prosperity are indivisible in this world. In Europe, Russia’s goal is to tear Ukraine apart. And we should be clear about what is at stake here. A failed Ukraine would not only weaken Europe. And that is why we have taken historic steps to support Ukraine and its future. But a failed Ukraine would also intensify the challenges in other parts of the world. Not least in this region. Other countries around the world are watching very closely whether there is any impunity if you invade a neighbor or violate international borders. Or whether there are real deterrents,” von der Leyen stated during her visit to New Delhi.

She emphasized that Europe has taken historic steps to support 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 join the European family. And Europe is ready to live up to its responsibility when it comes to security and defense. We will step up our defense spending to ensure that Member States have access to the full spectrum of capabilities that this new reality demands. But we also want to step up cooperation with crucial partners like India,” the European Commission president stressed.

Von der Leyen noted that the EU is considering future security and defense partnerships with India, similar to existing partnerships with Japan and South Korea. These efforts would enhance cooperation in addressing shared security challenges, including international terrorism, maritime security threats, cyberattacks, and sabotage of critical infrastructure.

She welcomed India’s interest in joining EU defense industry development projects within the framework of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) initiative. She also expressed confidence that both sides could collaborate in advancing modern technological sectors, including cybersecurity, space, and drone manufacturing.

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

As previously reported, on March 27-28, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, along with the College of European Commissioners, is visiting New Delhi to discuss avenues for deepening EU-India cooperation in economics, trade, and security.