PM Modi, Biden discuss Ukraine, Bangladesh
New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden on Monday discussed the situation in Ukraine and the developments in Bangladesh.
Modi received a telephone call from President Biden on Monday. This was the first time the two spoke since Modi visited Moscow in July. US diplomats had protested the timing of his visit and sought New Delhi’s intervention in the Ukraine-Russia war using its long-standing ties with Russia. Modi, who visited Ukraine on August 23 to meet President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, discussed the ground situation with Biden. Modi reiterated India’s consistent position on favouring dialogue and diplomacy in the conflict. He expressed full support for early return of peace and stability.
On the issue of Bangladesh, where street protests led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, Modi took up the concerns that India has already flagged with Dhaka.
A statement quoting the PM said, “The two leaders expressed their shared concern over the situation in Bangladesh. They emphasised restoration of law and order and ensuring safety and security of the minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.”
The violence against minorities in Bangladesh and the damage to Indian properties like the Indira Gandhi Culture Centre at Dhaka has officially been conveyed to Mohd Yunus Chief, the adviserr to the interim government.
The two leaders reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the cooperation in multilateral fora, including the Quad. The Quad Leader’s summit is to be hosted by India and Biden could be attending it.
Modi conveyed his appreciation for Biden’s deep commitment to the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
