Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb engaged in a telephonic conversation on Wednesday, focusing on the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and the strengthening of India-EU ties.
During the call, President Stubb shared his assessment of recent meetings in Washington D.C. involving leaders from Europe, the United States, and Ukraine, which aimed to address the ongoing conflict. Modi reiterated India's consistent support for a peaceful resolution and the early restoration of peace and stability. He conveyed that India has always stood for peace and remains committed to supporting sincere efforts for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of finding a just and lasting solution to the Russia-Ukraine war, recognizing it as a shared global interest. Stubb praised India's global role in seeking peace, acknowledging that India is respected and heard in the South, West, and East. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also expressed his hope that India will contribute to securing peace, appreciating India's commitment to peace and dialogue.
In addition to the Ukraine conflict, Modi and Stubb discussed strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as trade, technology, and sustainability. They reviewed the progress in the India-Finland bilateral relationship and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing partnerships in emerging fields, including quantum technologies, 6G, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability.
President Stubb expressed Finland's support for the early conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He also affirmed his support for the AI Impact Summit, which India is set to host in 2026, highlighting the growing technological partnership between the two countries.
Modi extended an invitation to President Stubb to visit India soon. Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact to further their shared agenda.
The India-EU FTA is projected to create one million direct jobs in India, while also opening Indian markets to European goods with reduced or zero tariffs. Furthermore, the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is set to come into effect on October 1st and is expected to secure a $100 billion investment commitment from EFTA over 15 years.