New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) The Ukrainian Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, emphasized the need for India to engage more actively in the peace-building efforts in his war-torn nation. In an interview with IANS, Polishchuk referred to India as a “growing power” and highlighted the necessity for New Delhi to assume a larger role, particularly as it presides over groups like Quad and BRICS.

“India is a growing power and it’s challenging for India to maintain its current stance of neutrality. Especially when you're a nation aspiring for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. It’s essential to take on a more significant role, not merely following existing trends, but actively shaping the global political agenda. This year, India is leading both BRICS and Quad, and we anticipate that India will once again exhibit its commitment to maintaining peace globally. As Modiji stated, India stands for peace. Thus, we require greater Indian participation in the peace-building initiatives in Ukraine,” the ambassador told IANS.

India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy while expressing concern over the human toll of the conflict since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.

“If you become more proactive, we would greatly appreciate Indian involvement in this process. We genuinely need India, which has consistently shown its capability as a global peace promoter,” Polishchuk remarked.

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit. Polishchuk noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also eager to visit India shortly.

“We anticipate our President's visit to India. It was mentioned in a joint statement following the historic visit of the honorable Prime Minister to Ukraine in 2024. We hope that during his visit to India, our President will have the chance to clarify Ukraine's stance in this conflict,” he said.

The Ukrainian Ambassador, who attended the World Book Fair in New Delhi, also shed light on the struggles faced by Ukrainians at home.

“The situation in Ukraine is extremely difficult due to the war. Nevertheless, I am pleased that we have the chance to showcase some Ukrainian authors like Lyubko and Julia, who are here to share their narratives. They endure very harsh conditions in Ukraine without electricity or heating,” he added.

“This is a strong testament that Ukrainian identity will not be extinguished. We will never surrender. Our fight continues, and when we triumph in this conflict, it will symbolize the resilience of Ukraine as a brave nation with a rich history, and we have individuals willing to sacrifice for our country,” he concluded.