NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron and the two leaders discussed efforts to bring an early end to the conflict on Ukraine.The two leaders also reviewed and positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in various areas, including the India-France Strategic Partnership.

“Had a very good conversation with President Macron. We reviewed and positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in various areas. Exchanged views on international and regional issues, including efforts for bringing an early end to the conflict in Ukraine. The India-France Strategic Partnership will continue to play a key role in fostering global peace and stability,” PM Modi said in a post on X.The conversation comes at a time when the US has put additional tariffs on India over its continuous purchase of Russian oil, which the States claims, has been fueling Moscow’s offensive against Ukraine. Meanwhile, India has defended its stance, calling it a market-driven decision.