India has taken a neutral stance since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. According to observers, good relations with both Russia and Ukraine increase the chances of India playing a role in reconciliation between the two sides.
Barry O'Farrell, Australia's ambassador to India, has said that members of the Quad Group of four countries (US, India, Japan and Australia) have acknowledged India's position on Ukraine.
He told the media in New Delhi on Sunday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in talks to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and that no country would be unhappy if the war ended. The Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison arrived on Monday, a day before the virtual talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.
The Australian ambassador was asked about Western dissatisfaction with India's position after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and India's purchase of crude oil from Russia at a discounted rate.
Diplomatic sources say India's stance on the invasion of Ukraine is in line with the 1957 policy of "non-alignment" formulated by the country's first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Under this policy, India seeks its own role in resolving disputes, rather than directly condemning or explicitly supporting either side. India has been pursuing the same policy during the Cold War.
It is to be noted that India has not yet condemned Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. It emphasizes respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty. It also abstained from voting on resolutions condemning the Russian attack at various UN forums.
