New Delhi

On Saturday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar congratulated Ukraine on its Independence Day and expressed eagerness to enhance bilateral relations. In a message to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and the Ukrainian people, Jaishankar stated, Congratulations to FM Dmytro Kuleba and the Government and people of Ukraine on Independence Day. I look forward to further developing our bilateral ties.

Jaishankar highlighted key achievements in India-Ukraine relations over the past year. These include the 9th India-Ukraine Foreign Office Consultations held in Kyiv in July 2023, a review of the India-Ukraine Inter-Governmental Commission in March 2024, and the signing of an MoU in August 2024 on High Impact Community Development Projects.

He also noted India's support in health cooperation, with India donating four BHISHM cubes of essential medicines and equipment for emergencies, as well as over USD 10 million in medical aid from Indian pharmaceutical companies. Additional agreements include an MoU on medical product regulation, and cooperation in agriculture and food security key areas given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Cultural diplomacy is also advancing, with a Programme for Cultural Cooperation for 2024-28 signed in August. This includes events like the 10th International Day of Yoga and Mahatma Gandhi's 153rd birth anniversary celebrations in Kyiv.

Jaishankar's message follows PM Modi's landmark visit to Kyiv, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1991. Both leaders have committed to strengthening bilateral ties for mutual benefit.