Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Calls for India’s Role in Ukraine Conflict Resolution
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the potential role of global powers like India and China in resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, during her remarks at the Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio, Italy, on Saturday. Her statements came shortly after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and followed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s acknowledgment of India’s efforts in seeking a resolution to the crisis.
Meloni, addressing the forum, stressed that international law must be upheld to prevent further global instability. She warned that if these rules are disregarded, the result would be an increase in chaos and economic fragmentation. “Economic globalization and violations of international law cannot coexist,” she remarked, underscoring that this issue had been raised with Chinese officials. According to her, countries like India and China have a responsibility to contribute toward resolving the Ukraine conflict.
Her comments came less than two days after Putin, speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, mentioned India’s significant role. The Russian leader highlighted his trust in partners like India, China, and Brazil, believing that these nations are genuinely interested in assisting to resolve the crisis. “We respect our friends and partners… I have no doubt they are sincerely committed to offering a helping hand,” Putin stated.
During her meeting with Zelensky, Meloni discussed the current state of the war in Ukraine and the country’s most pressing needs, especially with winter approaching. Zelensky expressed his gratitude for the military and technical support already provided by Italy and reiterated the importance of receiving more critical weaponry swiftly.
Zelensky also briefed the Italian prime minister on the challenges Ukraine faces, including the recent attacks on civilian infrastructure. Their discussion extended to the allocation of nearly $50 billion from frozen Russian assets, part of a G7 initiative to assist Ukraine. Both leaders also explored the reconstruction of Ukraine, particularly its energy infrastructure, in preparation for the Ukraine Recovery Conference, which Italy will host in 2025.
Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense and emphasized that supporting Ukraine remains a top priority for Italy during its G7 Presidency. In her broader address at the Ambrosetti Forum, Meloni reflected on the geopolitical and economic instability brought about by the conflict, reiterating her belief that major global players like India and China will have a significant role in finding a peaceful resolution.
