Modi urges Iran's Pezeshkian to pursue dialogue on West Asia tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pressed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to pursue dialogue and diplomacy in addressing West Asia's mounting conflicts during their meeting in the national capital on Friday. The talks also emphasized the critical importance of ensuring safe navigation and protecting seafarers operating in regional waters.

The bilateral discussions covered multiple dimensions of India-Iran relations as the two leaders held their second meeting within a fortnight. The encounter took place hours after Pezeshkian's arrival in New Delhi to participate in the BRICS summit, marking his maiden visit to India in his capacity as president.

The timing of the meeting carries particular significance given the recent escalation of regional tensions following fresh economic sanctions imposed by the United States against Iran. India reiterated its consistent diplomatic stance during the talks, with the Ministry of External Affairs noting that "the Prime Minister emphasised that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy."

The two leaders exchanged perspectives on recent developments unfolding across West Asia, with Modi stressing New Delhi's position on resolving disputes through peaceful engagement rather than confrontation. The discussions reflected India's longstanding interest in regional stability and its substantial economic stakes in maritime commerce across the strategically vital waterways of the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf.