Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed on the need for dialogue and diplomacy on Ukraine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his call for an early cessation of hostilities in Ukraine during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Friday.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 22nd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

"In the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Prime Minister reiterated his call for an early cessation of hostilities and the need for dialogue and diplomacy," the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.

During their meeting, the leaders appreciated the sustained momentum in bilateral ties, including contacts at various levels. President Putin expressed appreciation for Prime Minister’s video-message at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok earlier this month, the PMO added.

The leaders discussed important issues of bilateral cooperation as well as regional and global issues of interest.

According to the PMO, discussions also pertained to global food security, energy security and availability of fertilizers in the context of the challenges emanating from the current geo-political situation.

This was the first meeting of both leaders this year, which marks the 75th anniversary year of establishment of diplomatic relations.