New Delhi, April 8 --  India on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire reached in West Asia, expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace while emphasizing the need for sustained diplomatic engagement to end the ongoing conflict.

In an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, the government said it had consistently advocated de-escalation and dialogue, underlining that these remain essential to bring an early resolution to the conflict. The statement positioned India's response within its broader diplomatic approach centered on peaceful resolution.

The development comes amid prolonged tensions in the region that have triggered humanitarian concerns and disrupted global systems, particularly energy supply chai...