"Russia's Unjustified War" Criticism Met with Prime Minister Modi's Principled Response Only
[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Gyumin] U.S. President Joe Biden met with the leaders of India and Australia gathered in Japan for the Quad summit to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation. However, India showed a difference in stance from the U.S. regarding the Ukraine crisis.
On the 24th (local time), according to Bloomberg and others, the White House announced, "President Biden condemned Russia's unjustified war against Ukraine," and "the two leaders pledged to continue humanitarian aid and discussed cooperation measures to manage the disruptions caused by the Ukraine war, especially the rise in energy and food prices."
President Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly met for about 30 minutes to discuss efforts to curb the rise in energy and food prices caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
During the meeting, President Biden condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine, stating it is a global issue, not just a European one, and emphasized to Prime Minister Modi that there are many areas where the two countries can work together.
However, Prime Minister Modi gave a general response, saying, "The two countries share a strategic partnership and a relationship of trust in the true sense."
India has so far maintained a neutral stance rather than joining U.S.-led sanctions or condemnations against Russia. This is attributed to India's high dependence on Russia for military equipment, oil, and other supplies.
In the subsequent summit with Australia, President Biden congratulated newly appointed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, saying, "I personally wanted to meet you." He added that the alliance between the two countries has contributed to Indo-Pacific security and expressed optimism that it will remain strong going forward.
In response, Prime Minister Albanese said it was an honor to participate in the Quad meeting as his first official event and expressed hope that the alliance between the two countries will continue and strengthen. He also emphasized that he was part of the Australian government when the decision was made for the U.S. Marines to be stationed in Darwin, northern Australia, to counter China.
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