Russia appreciates India’s ‘independent and balanced position’ in UNSC vote

New Delhi, Feb 26 (UNI) The Russian Embassy in India on Saturday expressed appreciation of India’s abstention at the UNSC vote on Ukraine, terming it an “independent and balanced position”. The embassy said that in the spirit of the bilateral Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership Russia “is committed to maintain close dialogue with India on the situation around Ukraine”. The tweet read: “Highly appreciate India’s independent and balanced position at the voting in the UNSC, says Russian Embassy. “In the spirit of the special and privileged strategic partnership Russia is committed to maintain close dialogue with India on the situation around Ukraine.” The response came as India on Friday abstained on a UNSC resolution condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The resolution proposed by the US and Albania, with the backing of nearly 60 countries, received 11 votes in favour, with Russia, a permanent member, voting against it. In the 15-member Council, the resolution received three abstentions — from India, UAE, China. Since Russia voted against the resolution, it was not passed. Explaining the abstention, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, T.S. Tirumurti said, “It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it.” “Dialogue is the only answer to the settling of differences and disputes, however daunting that may appear at this moment,” he added. “India is deeply disturbed by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine. “In its Explanation of Vote, India called for respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. India also called for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities, which was also conveyed by PM Modi to President Putin during their phone call on Thursday night. India also highlighted that the Welfare and security of Indian community, in particular stranded students, and their evacuation from Ukraine is an immediate priority