Bilateral treaties and agreements play a critical role in fostering and enhancing the relationship between India and Ukraine. Over the years, more than 17 significant bilateral agreements have been established, covering diverse areas such as cooperation in science and technology, foreign office consultations, space research collaboration, and the avoidance of double taxation. These agreements create a robust framework for collaboration, facilitating smoother interactions between the two nations across various sectors.
A noteworthy development in this dynamic relationship occurred during Aero India 2021, a prestigious defense exhibition held in India. During this event, Ukraine signed four agreements with India valued at ₹530 crore (approximately ₹595 crore or US$71 million in 2023). These agreements are pivotal as they encompass the sale of new defense hardware, alongside commitments for the maintenance and upgrades of existing military equipment used by the Indian armed forces. Such developments not only strengthen defense ties but also reflect India's increasing reliance on global partnerships to enhance its military capabilities.
Furthermore, the cooperation extends beyond military engagements into critical areas such as trade, education, and culture. With both countries recognizing the potential for mutual benefit, efforts have also been made to enhance trade relations. The India–Ukraine trade ties have been bolstered by initiatives aimed at promoting investment opportunities, which further contributes to economic growth in both nations. By nurturing these bilateral agreements and fostering robust communication pathways, India and Ukraine are poised to reinforce their collaboration and address common challenges on a global scale.
As global dynamics continue to evolve, the partnership between India and Ukraine stands as a testament to their shared interests and aspirations. The commitment to effective dialogue and active cooperation through these agreements heralds a promising future, setting a blueprint for other nations seeking to build strong and strategic partnerships.
Trade Relations
The trade relations between India and Ukraine have thrived on the foundation of a robust and enduring friendship established since the early 1990s. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, India and Ukraine formalized their relationship by signing the Treaty on Friendship and Co-operation in March 1992. This treaty not only laid the groundwork for diplomatic ties but also provided a substantial impetus to both countries' economic interactions. Over the years, these ties have matured into a dynamic economic partnership, characterized by significant increases in bilateral trade and collaboration across various sectors.
Since the early 2000s, trade between India and Ukraine has escalated remarkably. From 2003 to 2005, bilateral trade experienced a staggering threefold spike, surpassing the US$1 billion mark. By 2006, Ukraine's imports from India had doubled to US$3.2 billion, while exports to India surged by 3.6 times to reach approximately US$7.4 billion. This increasing trade volume reflects not only the growing demand for Indian goods like pharmaceuticals, ores, and tea but also the expanding range of Ukrainian exports, which predominantly include machinery, chemicals, and various industrial products. By the fiscal year 2018–19, the trade volume had further expanded to nearly US$2.8 billion, making India the largest export destination for Ukraine in the Asia-Pacific region and the fifth largest globally.
The bilateral trade dialogue has been further reinforced through the regular sessions of the Ukraine-India Inter-Governmental Commission, which convene Joint Business Council Meetings aimed at enhancing economic cooperation. These platforms encourage dialogue between business leaders and government officials, paving the way for new opportunities and partnerships. The robust engagement has led to substantial Ukrainian presence in the Indian market, particularly in critical sectors such as energy and heavy industries. Notable joint stock companies, like 'Ukrindustry,’ have successfully undertaken key projects like the reconstruction of coke batteries in Indian metallurgy plants. Ukrainian manufacturers such as Azovmash and Novokramatorskyi have contributed to India’s industrial landscape by supplying essential machinery for oxygen converter production.
Beyond trade, the relationship between India and Ukraine demonstrates a commitment to technological exchange and scientific collaboration. Ongoing partnerships in research and technology development further enhance this bilateral relationship, addressing both countries' shared goals for growth and innovation. As India continues to emerge as a global economic powerhouse, and Ukraine seeks to enhance its international partnerships, the strong ties established over decades stand poised to evolve and deepen in the current global landscape. This partnership not only signifies an economic alliance but also represents a broader strategic coalition that emphasizes mutual respect and shared interests.
Overview of Science and Technology Relations
The collaboration between India and Ukraine in the fields of science and technology has been formalized through an agreement signed in May 1992. This agreement established a Joint Science and Technology Committee, which convenes annually to evaluate the implementation of various projects, organize exhibitions, and enhance cooperation in scientific research. The last assembly of the committee took place in Kyiv in October 2007, where it approved eleven significant science and technology projects aimed at fostering mutual interests. Additionally, the Days of Ukrainian Science and Technology were celebrated in December 2004 in New Delhi, showcasing Ukraine's contributions to the scientific community and further solidifying ties between the two nations.
Space Cooperation and Development
A notable aspect of the India-Ukraine partnership is the ongoing collaboration between the National Space Agency of Ukraine and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This collaboration extends into various dimensions of space exploration and satellite development, reflecting both nations' commitment to advancing their capabilities in this domain. In 2005, during a visit to Ukraine, the then-President of India, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, expressed a strong desire to enhance cooperation in space research. His engagement with Ukrainian space experts underscored the potential for not only technological exchange but also educational and cultural interaction in the fields of aerospace.
Advancements in Information Technology
Ukraine boasts a robust IT sector, characterized by its successful offshore call centers and a thriving software development industry. This sector has become an appealing destination for Indian IT companies seeking to expand their reach within Europe and access skilled talent. An illustrative example of this collaboration is the agreement signed in May 2004 between Aptech Limited from Mumbai and the International Institute of Personnel Management in Ukraine, which is the largest IT training center in the country. This partnership aims to provide comprehensive IT training programs for schools and educational institutions in Ukraine, highlighting the mutual benefits of such collaborations for skills enhancement.
Growth in Biotechnology and Energy Sectors
The partnership between the two countries has also extended into biotechnology, a rapidly growing sector. Key Indian companies, such as Biocon and Genome, are actively engaging in collaborative efforts with Ukrainian firms, which result in technological sharing and co-development of innovative solutions. Furthermore, Ukraine has established itself as a key supplier of turbines for thermal, hydroelectric, and nuclear power plants, underscoring its importance in energy cooperation. This shared expertise paves the way for projects that can harness renewable energy and improve energy efficiency, which are critical areas of focus for both nations.
Political Relations
India has maintained a consistent and amicable relationship with Ukraine, dating back to the time when Ukraine was a republic within the Soviet Union. This enduring partnership is reflected in the annual Foreign Office consultations that take place at the Secretary level, enabling both nations to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The Ukrainian side is represented by the Deputy Foreign Minister responsible for the Asia region during these discussions, indicating a structured approach to bilateral relations. Furthermore, Ukraine has shown commitment to cooperating with India on various international matters, fostering a spirit of mutual support and shared goals.
One of the significant areas of alignment between India and Ukraine is the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, where Ukraine advocates for a solution grounded in the bilateral Simla Agreement between India and Pakistan. This position reinforces Ukraine's stance on peaceful negotiations and dialogue rather than external intervention. Additionally, Ukraine supports reforms of the United Nations structure, signaling its interest in a more equitable global governance system, which resonates with India’s efforts to advocate for a reformed multilateral institution that reflects contemporary geopolitical realities.
The dynamic between India and Ukraine faced a challenge during the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as various narratives emerged regarding their historical interactions. Indian media highlighted Ukraine's opposition to India's nuclear tests conducted in 1998, pointing to a supposed vote in favor of UN Resolution 1172 that condemned nuclear testing by both India and Pakistan. However, it is essential to clarify that Ukraine was not a UN Security Council member at the time of this unanimous resolution, which also did not impose any sanctions. Such context is crucial for understanding the nuances of international relations and historical reporting.
Despite this, Ukraine has been vocal in its opposition to nuclear proliferation, evident through its representatives’ condemnation of India’s nuclear tests during meetings in various international forums such as the Conference on Disarmament. Mykola Maimeskul, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, articulated disapproval of the tests, and Volodymyr Yelchenko further emphasized this stance in a special statement. This historical context illustrates the complexities surrounding arms control and highlights the often-divergent perspectives on national security and global nuclear policy within the broader framework of India-Ukraine relations. Ultimately, while there may be areas of contention, the fundamental aspects of cooperation and mutual respect in other spheres continue to characterize the relationship between India and Ukraine.
Position on Crimea
India's stance on the issue of Crimea has been a subject of complexity and diplomatic maneuvering, particularly following Russia's annexation of the region in 2014. Rather than aligning firmly with international condemnation, India opted to abstain from a resolution that criticized Russia's actions. This approach reflects India's broader strategy of maintaining a non-aligned position on geopolitical disputes, emphasizing a preference for dialogue over confrontation. Furthermore, India has refrained from imposing any sanctions on Russia, showcasing its reluctance to sever ties with a country considered a key partner in various sectors including defense, trade, and energy.
The nature of India's relationship with Crimea was further highlighted by the unofficial visit of Sergey Aksyonov, the then Prime Minister of Crimea, to India in December 2014. Aksyonov's trip was marked by the signing of a memorandum with the Indian-Crimean Partnership, which sparked controversy and brought India's foreign policy into scrutiny. Despite the Ministry of External Affairs' assertion that Aksyonov's visit was unofficial and that he was not part of a formal Russian delegation, experts raised eyebrows at the timing and implications of this engagement. This incident drew criticism not only from the Ukrainian side, with President Volodymyr Zelensky expressing his discontent, but also from the United States, indicating concern over India's diplomatic choices regarding territorial integrity issues.
In a further demonstration of its diplomatic balancing act, India, in November 2020, voted against a resolution at the United Nations that condemned alleged human rights violations by Russia in Crimea. This vote, in conjunction with 22 other nations, signaled India's intention to maintain its longstanding relationship with Russia while navigating the intricate dynamics of international relations. This position has led to ongoing discussions regarding India's foreign policy direction and its balancing act between traditional allies and contemporary geopolitical realities, particularly in light of rising tensions between major powers. As global politics continues to evolve, India’s role will be pivotal in addressing both regional stability and preserving its multifaceted bilateral relationships.
India's Stance During the Invasion
Throughout the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, India's diplomatic stance has been one of abstention rather than outright condemnation. The Indian government chose not to support multiple resolutions that sought to criticize Russia's military actions, a decision that was evident in key votes at both the United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Security Council. India stood as one of only three countries on the Security Council to abstain from the critical vote that aimed to address the invasion, which was ultimately obstructed by Russia's veto as a permanent member. This pattern of abstention extended to additional resolutions that called for investigations into alleged human rights violations carried out by Russian forces in Ukraine, as well as measures proposing Russia's expulsion from the United Nations Human Rights Council. The Indian government’s position has been described by Russian officials as "balanced and independent," highlighting a nuanced approach amidst global tensions.
Continuation of Economic Relationships
In solidarity with its long-standing partnership with Russia, India refrained from rebuking Moscow over its military actions and instead reinforced its economic ties. Post-invasion, there was a remarkable increase in India’s importation of Russian oil, driven by favorable pricing amidst global sanctions against Russia. In 2022, Russia ascended to become India's third-largest oil supplier, a dramatic leap from its earlier ranking of seventeenth in 2021, where it accounted for merely 1% of India's oil imports. From April 2022 to January 2023, Indian imports from Russia surged by an astonishing 384%, primarily due to the procurement of discounted oil. This shift prompted reactions from Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who publicly criticized India’s economic benefits derived from Russia’s actions, arguing that neutrality in such circumstances equated to complicity.
Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine
While maintaining its economic ties with Russia, India has also sought to balance its position by providing non-violent and humanitarian support to Ukraine. The Indian government has supplied essential medicines, medical equipment, and other critical humanitarian assistance, demonstrating a commitment to address the needs of the Ukrainian people despite its complex relations with Russia. This approach is aligned with India's broader foreign policy strategy, which has been characterized by a "de-hyphenated" policy, indicating a desire to engage with both nations independently of each other’s influence.
Diplomatic Engagements and Future Relations
As the war progressed into 2024, diplomatic engagements continued to unfold. During a visit to India, Foreign Minister Kuleba highlighted the potential risks of Russia's strengthening relationship with China and underscored Ukraine's eagerness to restore trade ties with India. He articulated the sentiment that the long-standing Indo-Russian relationship, steeped in Soviet-era ties, may not endure in the long term, implying a necessity for India to reassess its partnerships and international alignments. In June 2024, during a peace summit in Switzerland, Indian diplomat Pavan Kapoor's choice not to sign the Joint Communiqué reflected the careful balancing act India has pursued throughout the conflict.
Further signaling the complexities of the situation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow in July 2024 drew sharp criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The timing of Modi's visit coincided with a devastating Russian missile strike on a children's hospital in Kyiv, which President Zelenskyy labeled a "huge disappointment" in terms of peace efforts. This incident encapsulates the ongoing challenges and tensions inherent in India's diplomatic positioning and the expectations of the international community during a critical period in Eastern Europe's geopolitical landscape.
Racial Segregation and Evacuation During Conflict
At the onset of the Russo-Ukraine war, reports emerged highlighting alarming incidents of racial discrimination against foreign nationals attempting to evacuate the conflict-ridden country. Numerous news outlets documented situations where individuals of Indian, African, and Middle Eastern descent faced significant barriers, being denied access to evacuation buses that were heading towards safer regions in Europe. This stark segregation raised concerns about the treatment of foreign citizens amidst a humanitarian crisis and underscored a troubling reality where racial biases could influence life-or-death decisions in times of conflict.
Cultural Insensitivity and Backlash
Compounding these issues of racial tension, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry became embroiled in controversy when it shared a caricature of the Hindu goddess Maa Kali, labeling it as a "Work of Art" on its official Twitter account. This act was met with considerable backlash from various communities and international observers who deemed it culturally insensitive and disrespectful. In response to the growing outrage, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar Dzhaparova issued a public apology, expressing regret for the portrayal of Goddess Kali in a distorted manner. This incident not only highlighted a gap in cultural understanding but also reflected the broader challenges Ukraine faces in navigating its international relationships, especially with countries like India, which has a significant diaspora.
Implications for India-Ukraine Relations
The interplay of these incidents raises significant concerns about the future of India-Ukraine relations. While both nations have historically maintained a cordial relationship marked by cooperation in various sectors, including education and technology, such instances of racial discrimination and cultural insensitivity could hinder diplomatic efforts and public perception. As India maintains a large community of students and professionals in Ukraine, the Indian government is likely to demand heightened assurances regarding the safety and dignity of its citizens abroad, particularly in times of crisis. Building a constructive dialogue and fostering mutual respect is crucial for both nations as they navigate the complexities of their bilateral relationship amid global geopolitical shifts.
Sanctions on India and China
In a significant diplomatic development, Oleksandr Merezhko, a senior lawmaker in Ukraine and an important aide to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, made a notable appeal during his visit to Washington. He called upon the United States to consider imposing sanctions on both India and China if these nations persist in purchasing oil from Russia. This statement underscores the heightened tensions surrounding international energy trade amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has prompted many countries to reassess their economic ties with Russia.
The request reflects Ukraine's growing concern over the economic support that countries like India and China continue to provide to Russia through their oil purchases. Despite international condemnation of Russia's actions, these countries maintain significant trade relations with Moscow, driven by their energy needs and geopolitical considerations. India, for instance, has been increasing its imports of Russian crude oil, capitalizing on the discounted rates following Western sanctions. Similarly, China has sought to secure energy stability through partnerships with Russia amid fluctuating global energy markets.
The implications of such sanctions could be far-reaching. For India and China, continued buy-in from Russian energy sources not only serves their immediate economic interests but also strategically positions them in the face of Western hegemony. Meanwhile, the potential fallout from U.S. sanctions could strain these countries' diplomatic relations with Washington, exacerbating existing geopolitical tensions. The situation poses a complex dilemma for international policymakers as they navigate the competing interests of safeguarding human rights and maintaining energy security. As the conflict in Ukraine persists, the call for sanctions highlights the intricate balance of global diplomacy and the various pressures nations face in the rapidly evolving landscape of international relations.
Protest Against Ammunition Transfer
On September 2, 2022, The Economic Times reported a significant diplomatic disagreement involving India concerning the transfer of arms and ammunition produced in Pakistan to Ukraine. This transfer, facilitated by the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, prompted a strong objection from the Indian government. India's concerns stem from the broader geopolitical ramifications such actions could entail, particularly given the complex relations it holds with both Pakistan and Ukraine.
India's stance is deeply intertwined with its strategic interests in the region. Historically, India has engaged in cautious diplomacy regarding arms supplies and military assistance to nations involved in conflicts, emphasizing the need for stability and peace. The transfer of arms from Pakistan to Ukraine, especially under the aegis of a third nation, raises complexities that could impact regional security and India's national interests.
This incident reflects the intricate web of international relations and the delicacy with which nations must navigate arms transfers. Countries like India are not merely passive observers in global conflicts but are actively shaping their foreign policies based on perceived threats and opportunities. The situation also underscores the lengths to which India is willing to go to assert its position on military aid and the importance of maintaining a balanced approach in international military engagements, especially those that could be construed as undermining its own security framework. In a world where arms supplies are often entwined with political alliances, India's protest signals its commitment to safeguarding its strategic interests in a challenging global landscape.
Indian Diaspora in Ukraine
In Ukraine, a vibrant Indian community thrives, albeit in small numbers. The diaspora primarily consists of business professionals and students, with approximately 18,000 Indian students enrolled in various academic institutions. A significant portion of these students is pursuing degrees in medicine, drawn by the country's reputed medical universities. This trend not only highlights India's emphasis on medical education but also Ukraine's appeal as an educational destination, known for its advanced curriculum and affordable tuition fees.
Indian professionals in Ukraine are actively engaged in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, information technology, engineering, medicine, and education. The contribution of these professionals to the local economy is notable, as they bring in expertise, innovation, and a diverse cultural perspective. They often serve as a bridge between India and Ukraine, fostering bilateral trade and cooperation. The Indian community harnesses their collective strength through platforms such as the ‘India Club,’ which was established by Indian expatriates in 2001. This organization plays a pivotal role in nurturing cultural ties, hosting significant events throughout the year, including Diwali and Holi festivals, cricket tournaments, and screenings of popular Bollywood films. These events not only unite the Indian diaspora in Ukraine but also promote cultural exchange with the local populace, strengthening community bonds and fostering goodwill.
Amid the ongoing conflict due to the Russian invasion, the Indian community faced unprecedented challenges. The personal accounts of community members have highlighted their plight during these turbulent times. One such narrative is by an Indian student from Madlauda, who penned his autobiography titled "The Life of Tolka." This book recounts his experiences in Ukraine, detailing the harrowing realities of war and the extraordinary efforts made during Operation Ganga, the evacuation initiative led by the Indian government that aimed to rescue Indian nationals stranded in Ukraine.
On March 4, 2022, India's government took a proactive stance by urging both Ukraine and Russia to agree on a truce in Sumy, a city that saw intense conflict and had hundreds of Indian students trapped there. India's diplomatic efforts were crucial in ensuring the safety and evacuation of its citizens amidst escalating tensions. This incident underscored India's commitment to protecting its diaspora abroad, prioritizing their safety and well-being during crises. Overall, the Indian community in Ukraine remains resilient, continuing to contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the country while navigating the complexities presented by geopolitical conflicts.