Ukraine’s Strategic Industries Minister Herman Smetanin and India’s Ambassador to Ukraine Ravi Shankar met on Oct. 26 to discuss enhancing defense industry cooperation between Kyiv and New Delhi. Ukraine expressed its openness to expanding partnerships in the defense sector and considering various forms of collaboration. The meeting followed discussions between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in September, focusing on trade, economic, defense cooperation, post-war reconstruction, and educational initiatives. Ukraine and India had approved four cooperation agreements in August during Modi’s first visit to Ukraine, although the specifics were not disclosed.
India, historically an ally of Russia, has maintained close economic and diplomatic ties with Moscow, with bilateral trade reaching a historic high in 2023. Prior to Modi’s visit to Kyiv in August, he visited Moscow and held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, including a widely criticized hug between the two leaders after Russia bombed a children’s hospital in Kyiv. Modi’s upcoming visit to Ukraine on Aug. 23 marked the first time an Indian prime minister set foot in the country since diplomatic relations were established over 30 years ago. India, as the world’s largest country by population, is becoming an increasingly powerful player on the global stage.
The discussions between Smetanin and Shankar focused on the potential for expanding cooperation in defense industries between Ukraine and India, with the Indian Embassy offering support in defining specific proposals. The details of the discussions were not disclosed publicly, but both parties expressed their commitment to exploring opportunities for collaboration. The meeting between the two officials reflected the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries in various sectors, including defense, trade, and cultural exchanges.
The strategic partnership between Ukraine and India is part of a broader diplomatic effort to diversify alliances and enhance economic cooperation with key global players. India’s continued engagement with Ukraine despite its historical ties with Russia signifies a shift towards deeper engagement with countries in Eastern Europe. The visit by Modi to Kyiv symbolized a new chapter in the bilateral relationship, with discussions on various areas of cooperation and the potential for mutual benefits through collaboration in defense and other sectors.
The visit by Modi to Ukraine also highlighted the country’s importance on the global stage, with its growing influence and stature attracting the attention of major powers like India. The prospect of expanding defense industry cooperation between Ukraine and India underscores the strategic significance of their partnership in enhancing security and defense capabilities. As both countries navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, their collaboration in defense industries can contribute to regional stability and security, while also promoting technological advancements and economic growth in the sector.
Overall, the discussions between Ukrainian and Indian officials underscore the commitment to deepening ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade, and cultural exchanges. The strategic partnership between the two countries reflects a shared vision for regional stability and economic development, as well as a commitment to enhancing defense capabilities through collaboration in defense industries. The ongoing engagement between Ukraine and India signals a broader shift towards diversified alliances and strategic partnerships that can contribute to mutual growth and shared prosperity.
