'India can mediate if it wishes to': Russian foreign minister on Ukraine war

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov spoke about the possibility of India mediating the conflict between Russia and Ukraine during his 2-day visit to India.

He said that India could play the mediator if it sees itself playing that role with a just and rational approach to international problems.

The Russian foreign minister's comments came after the talks mediating by Turkey failed to achieve any breakthrough.

During his visit to India, Lavrov held extensive talks with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar and with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to an official statement issued by India, PM Modi 'reiterated his call for an early cessation of violence, and conveyed India’s readiness to contribute in any way to the peace efforts.'

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Calling both countries good and loyal partners, Lavrov said that US is forcing other countries to follow their politics but the pressure won’t affect the ties between Russia and India.

He added that Russia was willing discuss agreements for anything that India wants to buy from them.