March 26, 1999

The Minister of External Affairs, Shri Jaswant Singh, received a telephone call from the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Mr. Igor Sergeivich Ivanov on March 26, 1999 for a detailed exchange of views on the situation in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The two Ministers reiterated their serious concern over recent developments, particularly the unilateral use of force by NATO. Shri Jaswant Singh said that the only solution to the crisis is a cessation of hostilities so as to give peace a chance. The two Ministers agreed that India and Russia will continue to consult with each other and coordinate their positions on this issue in the UN.

The Government of India is also in touch with the Non-Aligned Group in New York and with the NAM Chairman, South Africa.