PM Modi meets Iranian president, discusses regional stability amid crisis
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi on Friday. The meeting was part of the BRICS Summit and aimed at strengthening trade and bilateral ties between India and Iran. PM Modi thanked Iran for its regular, high-level participation in BRICS meetings under difficult circumstances. The two leaders discussed regional stability amid the ongoing Middle East crisis during their bilateral meeting.
Maritime concerns
Safety and security of seafarers top priority
According to sources cited by NDTV, PM Modi stressed that the safety and security of seafarers will be India's top priority.
He also reiterated India's commitment to resolving regional issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
Energy security was highlighted as a key concern during the talks, with an emphasis on safe passage for vessels carrying supplies.
Diplomatic engagement
Pezeshkian's 1st visit to India as president
Pezeshkian's visit is his first to India as president and comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, including "Operation Economic Outcast" launched by the United States.
The Iranian leader had earlier met PM Modi at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek, where they discussed expanding bilateral trade channels.
During that meeting, Pezeshkian had reportedly requested PM Modi to use India's diplomatic ties to encourage negotiations and reduce violence in conflict areas.
Economic collaboration
Iranian president at BRICS Business Forum
At the BRICS Business Forum, Pezeshkian called for stronger economic cooperation among member countries.
He stressed the need to use national currencies in trade and establish instruments to manage currency risks.
The Iranian president also spoke against US military aggression and sanctions, calling for an environment where legitimate trade isn't disrupted by monopolizing financial instruments.
Bilateral relations
India-Iran civilizational ties
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the civilizational ties between India and Iran. He said both countries are working together as BRICS partners for "shared progress and prosperity."
The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi is being held under India's Chairship theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability."
It focuses on development, sustainability, and innovation amid global economic fragmentation and geopolitical uncertainty.