NEW DELHI: Australia understands India's stance on Russia's invasion of
Ukraine, India's foreign secretary told reporters in a briefing on Monday following a virtual summit between the Prime Ministers.
Indian Foreign Secretary
Harsh Vardhan Shringla said the two countries agreed the Ukraine crisis should not divert the
Quad group's attention from the
Indo-Pacific region.
He told that there was serious concern about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Ukraine and both PM Modi and Australia PM Scott Morrison emphasised the need for cessation of hostilities and violence in the war-hit country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison hold the second India-Australia virtual summit, in New Delhi on Monday. (ANI Photo)"Ukraine and China issues were discussed. On the Ukraine issue, it was clear that the two sides had referred to the Quad summit in which the leaders had a fairly clear perspective that the situation in Ukraine should not impact on the Indo-pacific,"
Shringla said.
"Both leaders discussed serious concerns about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Ukraine and there was equal emphasis on the fact that Intl orders stand on the UN Charter on the rule of law and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states," Shringla told reporters. "Prime Minister Morrison also expressed understanding of India's position on the issue of Ukraine, which he felt definitely reflected our own situation, our own considerations."
Unlike its Quad partners -- the US, Japan and Australia -- India has not condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and has been maintaining that crisis should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday told Modi in New Delhi that Russia's invasion had shaken the "foundation of international order" and required a clear response.
Shringla also said that India and Australia were keen to finalise the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement as it will unlock new opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment ties.
The foreign secretary said the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest including shared concerns over terrorism.
Shringla said Modi also referred to the situation in eastern Ladakh and he emphasised that peace and tranquillity in the region was essential for normalisation of India's ties with China.
Shringla said Australia was also investing $15 billion in
Asia's third largest economy.
(With inputs from agencies)