Key Takeaways
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
- The talks between Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian were held on the eve of the Brics summit in India.
- India has condemned Iran’s attacks on its Gulf neighbours and energy infrastructure but signed a joint declaration against US-Israeli military actions.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held talks on Friday, focusing on the protection of navigation and seafarers' safety.
The discussions took place on the eve of the annual Brics summit in New Delhi, which will also see the participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Modi reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, underscoring the need for lasting peace and stability in the region.
He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and ensuring the safety and well-being of seafarers.
This was the second meeting between the leaders in as many weeks, following their talks on August 31 during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
At the Bishkek summit, Pezeshkian had expressed Tehran's desire for a negotiated solution to its conflict with the US.
While India has condemned Iran's attacks on its Gulf neighbours and energy infrastructure, it signed a joint declaration condemning the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran and Western sanctions.
The talks also covered ongoing discussions between India and Russia, with their second meeting in two weeks expected to focus on trade, energy, and defence ties.
During their previous meeting, Modi had told Putin that the war in Ukraine needed to end for humanity's sake and that New Delhi would support every peace effort to stop the fighting.
