Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday, reviewing the full spectrum of relations between India and Iran during the BRICS Summit. This marks the first official dialogue between the two leaders since Pezeshkian assumed the presidency in July.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed satisfaction with the meeting, stating, “We reviewed the full range of relations between our countries and discussed ways to deepen ties in futuristic sectors.”
The meeting comes at a crucial time, following the tragic death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that PM Modi congratulated Pezeshkian on his election as Iran’s ninth president and welcomed Iran into the BRICS community.
The leaders explored avenues to enhance cooperation in various sectors, highlighting the significance of the recently signed long-term contract for Chabahar Port. This agreement is viewed as a pivotal milestone for both nations, facilitating reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan and improving trade links with Central Asia.
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The discussions also addressed regional developments, particularly the escalating conflict in West Asia. PM Modi expressed deep concern and reiterated India’s call for de-escalation, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians and pursuing diplomatic solutions.
Both leaders agreed to continue their collaborative efforts within multilateral frameworks such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). PM Modi extended an invitation for President Pezeshkian to visit India, which the Iranian leader accepted.
Prior to this meeting, Indian Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari represented India at Pezeshkian’s swearing-in ceremony in Tehran on July 30.
The BRICS alliance, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates on January 1, 2024. Under India’s presidency, Iran also became a member of the SCO.
The partnership between India and Iran has seen significant growth, particularly in infrastructure projects like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which connects Russia to India via Iranian ports. Just days before Raisi’s passing, the two countries signed a 10-year contract for the operation of Chabahar Port.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival in Kazan.
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