Ukrainian Delegation’s Unexpected Stop in Jaipur

A high-level Ukrainian delegation, including First Lady Olena Zelenska, made an unexpected stop at Jaipur International Airport on Sunday. The plane, en route to Tokyo, Japan, required refueling, prompting the brief layover. Alongside Zelenska was Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and other senior officials from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government.

Pre-Approved Refueling and Protocol Arrangements

The refueling stop was pre-approved by India’s Foreign Ministry, which had instructed the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security to extend necessary protocols to the Ukrainian delegation. The aircraft touched down in Jaipur at approximately 6:30 am. Special instructions were issued to exempt the delegation from pre-embarkation checks and frisking, ensuring a smooth transition during their brief stay.

VIP Treatment for Ukrainian Officials

During the stopover, the 23-member delegation, which included notable figures like Sergiy Kyslytsya, Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and Minister for Economic Affairs Oleksii Sobolev, disembarked and waited in the VIP lounge. They were provided with light refreshments and met with officials from the Ukrainian Embassy in Delhi who were present in Jaipur to welcome them.

Continuing Journey to Strengthen Japan-Ukraine Relations

The delegation resumed its journey to Japan at around 8:15 am without undergoing immigration procedures. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties between Ukraine and Japan. Ukrainian officials are expected to discuss increasing sanctions against Russia and seek support for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

India-Ukraine Diplomatic Relations

India has maintained a robust bilateral relationship with Ukraine since recognizing it as a sovereign nation in December 1991. Diplomatic relations were formally established in January 1992, marking a long-standing partnership across various sectors.