NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday thanked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his Independence Day greetings and spoke of strengthening bilateral ties, while also expressing hope for peace and progress in Ukraine.In a post on X, Modi said: “Thank you President Zelenskyy for your warm greetings. I deeply value the joint commitment to forging even closer ties between India and Ukraine. We earnestly wish our friends in Ukraine a future marked by peace, progress and prosperity.”

Zelenskyy had extended his wishes on the 79th Independence Day, also calling on New Delhi to play a role in efforts to end the ongoing war in his country. In his message, he said: “Congratulations to the people of India, President @rashtrapatibhvn, and Prime Minister @narendramodi on the Independence Day! This week we had a good, candid conversation with Prime Minister @narendramodi when I had an opportunity to personally convey my best wishes on this occasion.“The Ukrainian leader added: “Our nations share the experience of standing up for freedom and dignity, as well as the pursuit of peace and development. We hope that India will contribute to efforts aimed at ending the war, so that our freedom and sovereignty are truly secure. I am confident that the potential for mutually beneficial Ukraine–India cooperation lies ahead — in science, technology, trade, and culture. Wishing peace and prosperity!”Alongside Zelenskyy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also conveyed greetings to PM Modi on Independence Day. “Congratulations to my dear friend @PMOIndia @narendramodi and the people of India on your Independence Day,” Netanyahu posted on X.Responding to the message, PM Modi said: “Thank you PM Netanyahu for your warm wishes. May India-Israel friendship continue to flourish…may both countries further strengthen and deepen this relationship bringing peace, development as well as security to our people.”