India and Britain on Friday called on Russia for an immediate cease-fire in Ukraine as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced steps to help move New Delhi away from its dependence on Russia by expanding economic and defense ties. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told reporters that both sides discussed the situation in Ukraine, underscoring the importance of diplomacy and dialogue to settle issues. “Both sides also called for a free, open, inclusive and rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific,” Modi said an apparent reference to China’s aggressiveness in the region. Johnson switched over to Hindi language to describe Modi as a “Khaas Dost,” or special friend, and said, “Our relations have never been as strong or as good between us as they are now,’’ (https://news.yahoo.com/britain-offer-next-generation-defense-050626430.html) Johnson said Britain will issue an Open General Export License to India, reducing bureaucracy and shortening delivery times for defense procurement.