Modi and Iran’s President Discuss West Asia Conflict and Cooperation
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian to address the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The discussion, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, focused on the importance of dialogue to resolve tensions in the region. Modi emphasized the need for safety in navigation and the protection of seafarers.
This meeting marked the second time the leaders held talks since August 31, when they previously convened during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Bishkek. Pezeshkian is visiting India for the first time since assuming the presidency in 2024.
During their conversation, both leaders exchanged thoughts on recent developments in the region. The external affairs ministry shared that Modi reiterated India’s belief in resolving all issues through dialogue and peaceful diplomacy.
Modi also highlighted the significance of ongoing efforts to establish lasting peace and stability in West Asia, stressing the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and the welfare of seafarers. On social media, he remarked on the enduring friendship between India and Iran, noting their shared goal of a long-term and beneficial partnership.
The discussions included India’s commitment to achieving lasting peace in the region. Modi noted that Pezeshkian’s visit is “more special” due to its timing as his inaugural trip to India.
In their last meeting in Bishkek, Modi raised concerns regarding rising tensions in West Asia and expressed support for efforts aimed at bringing peace. He also addressed issues related to the protection of civilian lives and infrastructure, along with ensuring freedom of navigation.
India has found it challenging to balance its long-standing relationship with Iran while also expressing solidarity with Gulf Arab nations that have faced military threats from Iran. Indian officials have voiced their concerns regarding Iranian attacks on merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which have harmed Indian seafarers.
Sadly, ten Indian seafarers were among the fatalities reported in the West Asia conflict. In response to these attacks on foreign-flagged vessels with Indian crew members, India has summoned diplomats from both Iran and the United States to voice its protests.
Moreover, Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has affected India’s access to energy and fertilisers from the West Asia region, while U.S. sanctions have limited India’s developmental role in Iran’s Chabahar port.
The two leaders also discussed various aspects of their bilateral relationship, with Modi expressing gratitude for Iran’s involvement in BRICS meetings despite challenging conditions. He recognized the potential for BRICS to foster resilience, innovation, and cooperation among nations in the Global South.
As Iran continues to play a pivotal role, it is expected to contribute toward a unified declaration at the upcoming BRICS Summit on September 12-13. Ongoing differences between Iran and the United Arab Emirates, which are currently on opposing sides of the West Asia conflict, have previously hampered consensus during ministerial meetings leading to the summit.
