Doval and Shoigu Engage in Strategic Talks Amid Calls for India's Mediation

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu in St Petersburg to discuss mutual interests and the Ukraine conflict. This meeting was part of the BRICS national security advisors' conclave. Doval's visit follows Prime Minister Modi's recent trip to Ukraine and ongoing calls for India's role in mediating peace talks.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has engaged in wide-ranging discussions with Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu in St Petersburg, focusing on pertinent issues of mutual interest and the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

The Doval-Shoigu meeting occurred concurrently with the BRICS national security advisors' conclave on Wednesday evening.

This meeting arises after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's significant discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on August 23, which were also a topic in Doval's discussions with Shoigu.

The Indian embassy in Russia reported that both sides reviewed bilateral cooperation progress and discussed mutual interests during the talks.

Doval's visit follows Prime Minister Modi's notable trip to Kyiv, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister since Ukraine's independence in 1991. During his visit, Modi emphasized India's readiness to actively facilitate peace talks.

Recently, India's potential role in mediating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine has gained attention, given New Delhi's positive relations with both nations. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Russian President Vladimir Putin have both suggested India could play a mediatory role.

Putin highlighted at the Eastern Economic Forum that countries like India, Brazil, and China could provide necessary mediation, citing strong bilateral relations and trust.

India continues to advocate for resolving the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)