Kazan/New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a bilateral meeting with the President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian, during which he raised concerns over the volatile situation in West Asia and stressed on the role of diplomacy for de-escalation of the ongoing conflict.
The two sides also discussed on the importance of the International North South Transport Corridor and the Chabahar Port for regional connectivity.
The meeting between the two is their first, since the Iranian President was sworn in on July 30, following the death of his predecessor Ebrahim Raisi in a chopper crash in May.
In a post on X, PM Modi said the meeting with the Iranian President was very good and they also discussed ways to deepen ties in futuristic sectors.
“Had a very good meeting with the President of Iran, Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian. We reviewed the full range of relations between our countries. We also discussed ways to deepen ties in futuristic sectors,” the PM posted.
The MEA spokesperson posted on X:
“PM @narendramodi met President @drpezeshkian of Iran on the sidelines of 16th #BRICS2024 Summit in Kazan.
“Discussions focused on India-Iran bilateral relations, including on the importance of INSTC and Chabahar port for regional connectivity.
“PM raised concerns about the situation in West Asia, stressed upon protection of civilians and the role of diplomacy in de-escalation of the situation.”
An official statement said that Prime Minister Modi congratulated Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian on his election as the 9th President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He also welcomed Iran in the BRICS family.
The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in various fields. Noting that the signing of the long-term contract of Chabahar Port is an important milestone in bilateral relations, the two leaders reaffirmed its significance for reconstruction and redevelopment of Afghanistan and enhancing trade and economic linkages with Central Asia.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the widening of the conflict and reiterated India’s call to de-escalate the situation. Prime Minister also emphasized on protection of civilians and the role of diplomacy in resolving the conflict.
The leaders agreed to continue their cooperation in various multilateral forums, including BRICS and SCO. Prime Minister invited President Pezeshkian to visit India at an early date. President Pezeshkian accepted the invitation, the statement said.
