PM Modi speaks with Iranian President Pezeshkian, welcomes West Asia truce
New Delhi, June 30
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday evening spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, welcoming the recent understanding reached to end the West Asia conflict.
During their conversation, Pezeshkian briefed PM Modi on the recent developments in the region and the way forward. Prime Minister Modi welcomed the understanding reached and reiterated the need for continued efforts for lasting peace and stability while reiterating India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
Prime Minister Modi also stressed on the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, and for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce.
Both leaders had earlier spoken on March 21 during which they had discussed in detail the security situation in the West Asia region.
During that call, PM Modi had condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and also asserted the significance of safeguarding freedom of navigation along with keeping the shipping lanes open and secure.
In their earlier conversation too - on March 12 - PM Modi had voiced his concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, pointing to the loss of civilian lives and damage to infrastructure.
Last month, during his visit to New Delhi to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Aragchi had called Chabahar as a symbol of cooperation between Iran and India and expressed confidence that the India-developed port will serve as "golden gate" for access to Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe.
"Chabahar Port is one of the symbols of cooperation between Iran and India and we are so glad that Indians played an important role in the development of that port. It is now somehow slowed down because of the US sanctions. But, I am confident that this port would be like a golden gate for India to access Central Asia, the Caucasus and then Europe through this transit route and also for Europeans, Central Asians and others to access the Indian Ocean," said Aragchi.
"It is a very strategic port, important for both us and India and many other countries. So, I hope that Indians would continue their work in in Chabahar Port so it would be fully developed at the service of the interests of India and other countries around. I think India with its good reputation can play a greater role in this region to help diplomacy, to help peace, and to promote peace and security. India is a friend to almost all countries in the Persian Gulf, in the north of this Gulf, and in the southern part of that. So, we appreciate any positive constructive role played by India in this region," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some good news from that region. The West Asia conflict has caused so much suffering. I appreciate that India is using its diplomatic clout to nudge things in the right direction. But I hope we also push for a permanent solution, not just temporary truces.
The Chabahar Port angle is actually very important for India's strategic interests. If we can fully develop it, our access to Central Asia and Europe becomes much easier. Hope the US sanctions don't create too many hurdles. Smart diplomacy by Modi ji here.
Wait, is this the same Iran that's been giving us trouble over Chabahar? I mean, it's good they're talking peace, but our port development has been stuck for years because of US sanctions. Need to see concrete action, not just words on the phone.
India talking to both sides in that region is the right approach. We have good relations with Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. Only India can play this balancing act. Plus, any stability there means our energy imports and trade routes stay safe. Win-win 😊
Honestly, these phone calls feel more like photo ops. What tangible outcome will this bring? The West Asia conflict has been going on for decades. I wish India would use its growing influence to actually broker peace, not just welcome truces after the fact.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.