Iranian Foreign Minister Celebrates India’s Leadership in BRICS Ahead of the Summit
New Delhi, September 12 (ANI): On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi commended India’s role as the chair of BRICS, expressing confidence in India’s ability to steer the growing group of emerging economies as the summit approaches on Saturday.
During a press interaction at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Araghchi emphasized India’s increasing geopolitical significance and its crucial position as the current leader of the organization.
“We view India as a significant emerging nation now presiding over BRICS,” said Araghchi. “BRICS has become an essential institution and is playing a vital role in today’s world. I believe India is well-equipped to lead this group and its member countries effectively.”
He also touched upon ongoing economic discussions within BRICS, highlighting topics such as financial integration and the need to reduce dependence on the US dollar. “There are varied views among the member states, but everyone agrees on the importance of strengthening national currencies and facilitating trade using these currencies,” he stated.
However, Araghchi acknowledged that developing a unified financial structure is still a long-term consideration, noting, “The idea of a single currency is still being looked into.”
His remarks came as he arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS summit, following Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Finance Minister Seyed Ali Madanizadeh.
Earlier that day, President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s stance of resilience against foreign pressure, particularly from the United States, which he accused of trying to destabilize Iranian society through punitive measures.
While addressing a gathering of Indian religious leaders, intellectuals, and business figures in New Delhi, the Iranian president reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to self-reliance and peaceful coexistence in the face of external challenges. “We will not give in to oppression. Our goal is to create a society where all people live freely and equitably,” he remarked.
Pezeshkian highlighted Iran’s struggles against foreign interference since the 1979 revolution, asserting, “Since our revolution succeeded, they have worked to create division and impose sanctions to disrupt our society.”
He stressed the importance of human dignity and justice, stating, “We believe in equality among all people and their right to peacefully coexist in a just society. We will not succumb to bullying and will continue to pursue truth and justice.”
Prior to these statements, the Iranian President met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed various aspects of their bilateral relationship. Modi expressed gratitude for Iran’s consistent involvement in BRICS-related meetings, despite challenging circumstances, and acknowledged BRICS’s potential in fostering resilience and cooperation among nations in the Global South.
