New Delhi: Expressing concern over the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, India on Wednesday reiterated its earlier stand and said the two countries should resolve the issues through talks.
Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting at Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, as quoted by news agency ANI, said, “Attended the SCO Defence Ministers Meet at Tashkent today. Exhorted the member states to fight together and eliminate terrorism in all its forms. Expressed India’s concern on the situation in Ukraine. Ukraine situation should be resolved through talks.”
“Terrorism is one of the most serious challenges to global peace and security. India reiterates its resolve to fight all forms of terrorism and make the region peaceful, secure and stable,” the Defence Minister said.
Singh further added that the Afghan territory must not be used to intimidate or attack any other country by providing safe havens and training to militants and supporting their activities through financial assistance.
He further stressed the need to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan and safeguard their fundamental rights.
Calling upon the SCO to control cross-border terrorism, Rajnath Singh said, “We seek to develop joint institutional capabilities with the SCO member states, which, while respecting the sensitivities of each country, create the spirit of cooperation among individuals, societies and nations.”
“India is concerned about the humanitarian crisis in-and-around Ukraine. We have extended our support for the efforts of the UN Secretary General, UN agencies and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide humanitarian assistance,” Singh added.
Meanwhile, during the exchange of pleasantries with Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu earlier in the day, Singh conveyed his "deep appreciation" and thanks for arresting in Moscow a terrorist who was planning attacks in India.