Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that military confrontation alone cannot resolve global disputes, stressing that dialogue, diplomacy and respect for the rule of law remain essential to end ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the escalating tensions in West Asia.
Speaking at a joint press briefing in New Delhi with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, the Prime Minister said India and Finland share a common view that peaceful engagement is the only sustainable path to resolve international crises.
“India and Finland both believe in the rule of law, dialogue and diplomacy. We agree that no issue can be resolved through military conflict alone. Whether it is Ukraine or West Asia, we will continue to support the swift end of conflicts and every effort towards peace,” PM Modi said.
Call for reform in global institutions
Highlighting the changing global landscape, the Prime Minister also stressed the need to reform international institutions so that they can effectively address emerging global challenges.
“We also agree that reforming global institutions to address growing global challenges is not only necessary but urgent. Eliminating terrorism in all its forms is our shared commitment,” he said.
Middle East tensions intensify
The Prime Minister’s remarks came at a time when tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated. The conflict began after a joint US-Israel strike reportedly killed Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei earlier this week.
In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting Israel and locations across the Gulf region. The situation has also drawn in Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group based in Lebanon, widening concerns about a broader regional conflict.
Impact on the wider global situation
The ripple effects of the escalating Middle East tensions are being felt globally, including in Ukraine, where Russia’s invasion has continued for four years.
Referring to the broader geopolitical climate, PM Modi said the world is currently facing instability and uncertainty, with conflicts affecting several regions.
“Today the world is going through a period of instability and uncertainty. Conflict persists in many parts of the world, from Ukraine to West Asia,” he said.
India and Europe entering stronger partnership phase
The Prime Minister also highlighted the strengthening relationship between India and Europe, pointing to the historic trade agreement signed with the European Union earlier this year.
According to him, growing cooperation between India and Europe is helping reinforce global stability, development and shared prosperity.
“In such a global environment, India and Europe, two of the world’s major diplomatic powers, are entering a golden era of their relationship. Our growing cooperation is giving new strength to global stability, development and shared prosperity,” PM Modi said.