German Ambassador Acknowledges India’s Unique Position in Russia-Ukraine Conflict Ahead of Scholz’s Visit
New Delhi – German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann, has emphasized that Germany views India as being in a "very good position" to mediate between both sides of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking at his residence in New Delhi ahead of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit on October 25, Ambassador Ackermann expressed Berlin’s openness to any engagement that India might pursue regarding the conflict.
The comments come as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to co-chair the seventh Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) with Chancellor Scholz, a framework that facilitates discussions across various government sectors. In an interaction with journalists, Ackermann underscored the significance of Modi’s recent discussions at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
While he acknowledged not knowing the specifics of India’s agenda, Ackermann expressed hopes that the situation in Ukraine would be a topic of dialogue between Modi and Scholz. “We all know that Modi has shown renewed interest in the conflict,” he stated, highlighting the Indian Prime Minister’s prior visits to Kyiv and discussions with various leaders.
The German envoy further added that he is confident the two leaders would cover geopolitics during their meeting. “It will always be good to listen to India’s perspective on things,” he noted, recognizing the differences in Euro-centric and Indian viewpoints on global affairs.
During the BRICS Summit, Modi reiterated India’s stance of supporting dialogue and diplomacy over war, stressing the importance of peaceful negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. He noted the pressing challenges the world faces today, including wars, climate change, and terrorism, emphasizing that BRICS could play a constructive role in addressing these issues.
Modi’s diplomatic engagements regarding Ukraine have included visits to both Moscow and Kyiv earlier this year, where he has consistently advocated for peaceful resolution and dialogue. India’s involvement has been welcomed by both sides, reinforcing its position as a potential mediator in international conflicts.
As India and Germany strengthen their bilateral ties through the upcoming consultations, the importance of dialogue around the Russia-Ukraine conflict remains paramount, with both nations keen to understand each other’s perspectives and contribute to a peaceful resolution.
