Samarkand, Sep 16 (UNI) Stressing on the path of dialogue and diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russian President Vladimir Putin "Today's era is not for war" as the two leaders held bilateral talks on Friday on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. "I know that today's times are not for war. Democracy, diplomacy and dialogue assure us on how to progress on the path of peace, we'll get an opportunity to discuss that. I will also get an opportunity to understand your viewpoint," the Prime Minister told Putin. "In the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Prime Minister reiterated his call for an early cessation of hostilities and the need for dialogue and diplomacy," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. The leaders appreciated the sustained momentum in bilateral ties, including contacts at various levels, the MEA added. President Putin expressed appreciation for Prime Minister’s video-message at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok earlier this month. The Prime Minister also said that the biggest concerns specially for the developing countries today are food security, fuel security and fertilizers and asked Putin to take initiative to address the concerns. "We need to find solutions to these problems and you also have to take initiative in this regard," the Prime Minister added. The MEA said that the leaders discussed important issues of bilateral cooperation as well as regional and global issues of interest and discussions also pertained to global food security, energy security and availability of fertilizers in the context of the challenges emanating from the current geo-political situation. Modi also extended his gratitude to both Russia and Ukraine as the two countries helped India evacuate thousands of students safely in early days of the Russia- Ukraine conflict. The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to Putin for the feelings the Russian President expressed for India during deliberations in the SCO Summit. In response to Prime Minister Modi, Russian President Putin said that he understands the Indian position and concerns on the conflict in Ukraine. "We also want this to end as soon as possible. We will keep you abreast of what is happening there," he said. This was the first meeting of both leaders this year, which marks the 75th anniversary year of establishment of diplomatic relations. Th two leaders agreed to remain in touch, the MEA said.