During the conversation, PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation while ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure
PM Narendra Modi (right) with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. FILE PIC
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, conveying Eid and Nowruz greetings and discussing the prevailing security situation in the West Asia region.
During the conversation, PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation while ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure.
This was PM Modi’s second phone call with the Iranian President in the last 10 days.
“Spoke with President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia. Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains,” PM Modi posted on X after the call.
“Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure. Appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran,” PM Modi added.
The two leaders had earlier spoken on March 12, when PM Modi expressed concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, pointing to civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. He had also reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
West Asia conflict: Modi underscores uninterrupted energy and trade flows in talks with Pezeshkian
PM Modi had highlighted the importance of unhindered transit of goods and energy, noting that any disruption could have far-reaching consequences for India’s economy and regional stability.
Pezeshkian had then briefed PM Modi on the situation in Iran and shared his perspective on recent developments in the region.
Following the talks between the two leaders, Iran allowed India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi have also held several conversations over the past few weeks since the conflict began on February 28.
Besides reviewing the security situation in the region, the ministers have discussed shipping safety, bilateral cooperation and BRICS-related matters, where India is the current chair and Iran is a member.
Earlier this week, Finnish President Alexander Stubb had said India could play an important diplomatic role in easing tensions between the United States and Iran.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Stubb said global efforts should focus on stopping hostilities and opening channels for dialogue, while noting that India could potentially contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.
“We need a ceasefire... I’m wondering if India can actually get involved. We saw Foreign Minister Jaishankar call for a ceasefire to calm things down,” he said.
(With IANS inputs)
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