On Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Bishkek. The central focus of their dialogue was on enhancing and diversifying trade relations between India and Iran while advocating for diplomatic resolutions to ongoing conflicts in West Asia.

During their meeting, Modi expressed India’s intentions to broaden its trade partnership with Iran in the upcoming years. He highlighted the importance of fostering relationships across various sectors, underscoring India’s long-term friendship with Iran. After the meeting, Modi shared on social media, “Met President Masoud Pezeshkian in Bishkek. Reiterated our commitment to strengthening India’s long-standing friendship with Iran across diverse sectors. We want to expand and diversify our trade basket in the times to come.”

Indian officials noted that the talks extended to the prevailing regional circumstances, with Modi voicing concerns over escalating tensions. He reiterated India’s position advocating for dialogue and diplomacy as the means to resolve conflicts in West Asia, stressing the need for ongoing efforts to secure lasting peace and stability.

Navigating Regional Challenges

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Modi and Pezeshkian exchanged views on the West Asia conflict, reflecting on the evolving situation. Modi emphasised the critical nature of safeguarding navigation and commerce, making it clear that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers, must not suffer any harm during conflicts.

Furthermore, Modi conveyed India’s readiness to collaborate closely with Iran in various multilateral organisations, including BRICS and the SCO. He expressed eagerness to host Pezeshkian in India for the forthcoming BRICS Summit. In a response to Modi’s remarks, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for India’s continued support during recent conflicts.

He reiterated the importance of intensifying diplomatic efforts to ensure peace and security in the region. “From the very beginning of our administration, our efforts have been focused on ensuring peace and security and resolving issues through dialogue and negotiations,” he stated.

A Call for Diplomacy from Iran

Pezeshkian further critiqued the approach adopted by the United States, claiming it has preferred conflict and insecurity over diplomatic mechanisms. He emphasised the responsibility of leaders to safeguard their populations and create necessary conditions for peace and security.

In reaffirming the historical and cultural connections between Iran and India, Pezeshkian urged Modi to leverage India’s extensive relationships with various stakeholders to encourage peaceful negotiations. He argued that a collaborative approach was essential to overcoming current challenges and preventing further conflict.

Modi also took the opportunity to meet Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during the summit. Following their discussion, Modi noted a commitment to advancing cooperation in sectors such as defence, information technology, space, education, and pharmaceuticals.

He remarked, “India-Armenia cooperation is all set to grow… We are equally certain to deepen trade and investment linkages in the times to come.” The engagements at the summit encapsulated India’s focus on strengthening bilateral ties with Iran and Armenia while promoting peace and stability in the broader region through dialogue.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share