NEW DELHI - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday left for official visits to Poland and Ukraine. This would be the first-ever visit by an Indian premier to Ukraine, according to an official at the Ministry of External Affairs.

In his departure statement, Modi said that his visit to Poland came at a special time when both countries were marking 70 years of bilateral diplomatic ties.

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"India cherishes the deep-rooted friendship with Poland. This is further cemented by a commitment to democracy and pluralism," added the Indian Prime Minister.

About his Ukraine visit, Modi said he looks forward to the opportunity to build upon earlier conversations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on strengthening bilateral cooperation and share perspectives on peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. "As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region."