1.  Negotiation for peace

(Source: The Hindu; Section: The Editorial Page; Page: 08)

Topic: GS2 – International relations– Global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context:

Recently, a Ukraine Peace summit took place where India opted out of Ukraine declaration with six other nations. This article delves into various shortcomings and successes of the conference. It supports India’s decision to attend the meeting and not vote on the joint declaration.

About Ukraine Peace Summit:

• It was a two-day summit in Switzerland dedicated to forging a path forward to end the war in Ukraine.
• It concluded with the joint communique agreed to by more than 80 other countries and international organizations.
• The document reaffirmed the signatory’s commitment to refraining from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state including Ukraine, the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all states, including Ukraine, within their internationally recognized borders.
• Russia was not attending the summit and made its own peace plan.

The success of the Summit:

• Switzerland was able to bring together more than 90 countries, at least Fifty-six were represented by leaders, and about 82 countries and organizations signed the final joint communiqué.
• It cited three areas of broad understanding: nuclear safety, food security and the exchange of all prisoners of war, displaced and detained Ukrainians.

Issues in the Summit:

• One-sided event: Switzerland’s decision not to invite Russia and to build their negotiations based on the Ukraine Peace Formula along with UN resolutions made the event appear one-sided.
• China was not convinced: As China had a dominating influence over Moscow, Switzerland could not convince China to send even a delegate.
• Emerging Countries not signed: That no BRICS member, current and future, signed on to the statement indicates that it was a non-starter among the emerging economies.

Argument for India’s decision:

• India’s decision to attend the meeting was right, showing India is a key player in world affairs. India is a key Global South player and a country that has kept a balance in the conflict; India’s presence shows its stature.
• India’s stance on avoiding taking an anti–Russian stand shows its strategic autonomy in its foreign policy.
• India’s decision not to sign the joint declaration shows India wants mutually accepted negotiations with the involvement of both Russia and Ukraine. It will be a long time of peace.