Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Iranian President Masoud Pejeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan. Amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, Pejeshkian stressed the need for peace in West Asia and India’s good relations with all parties and its role in reducing conflict. Let us tell you that this is the first meeting between Pejeshkian and Modi, who became President after winning the elections in July. The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in key areas including Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
Modi wrote on ‘X’ in both English and Persian, “Had a very good meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pejeshkian. We reviewed the entire dimension of relations between our countries. We also discussed ways to further deepen ties in future areas.” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told a press conference that there was a “meaningful discussion” between Modi and Pejeshkian. “The two leaders also discussed the situation in West Asia,” Misri said. Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict and reiterated India’s call for protection of civilians. He stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions.
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The Foreign Secretary said President Pejeshkian stressed the need for peace and harmony in the region and said India can play an important role in reducing conflict due to its good relations with all concerned. Prime Minister Modi congratulated Pejeshkian on his recent election victory and reiterated India’s commitment to deepening age-old bilateral relations with Iran. The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in various fields. He also welcomed Iran into the BRICS family. “The discussions focused on key areas of cooperation, especially the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which are important for enhancing regional connectivity and economic partnership,” Misri said. Misri said that the issue of Afghanistan also came up in the discussion between the two leaders. “The two leaders stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region and continuing humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan,” he said. The Prime Minister invited President Pejeshkian to visit India soon. The Foreign Ministry said President Pezeshkian accepted the invitation.
Let us tell you that the talks between Iran and India took place after the recent controversy when Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had given a controversial statement regarding Indian Muslims. During that time, India not only reacted sharply to Khamenei’s statement but also showed him a mirror.