Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the newly elected President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS meeting in Kazan, Russia. This marks their first meeting since President Pezeshkians election. The leaders had a fruitful discussion, emphasizing the shared historical and civilizational ties that underpin their bilateral relations and exploring ways to further strengthen cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Pezeshkian on his recent victory and reaffirmed Indias commitment to deepening the age-old bilateral ties with Iran. 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 PM Modi wrote on X.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East

The meeting took place against a backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia or the Middle East. The tensions were further underscored by the looming threat of Israeli retaliatory strikes on Iran, following a missile attack by Iran on Israel earlier this month.

PM Modi voiced his serious concern about the escalating conflict and reiterated Indias appeal for the protection of civilians and the prevention of harm to them. He stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions. President Pezeshkian also highlighted the necessity for peace and harmony in the region and acknowledged the potential role India could play in de-escalating the conflict, given its good relations with all involved parties.

He emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions. President Pezeshkian also emphasized on the need for peace and harmony in the region and the role that India could play in de-escalating the conflict, given its good relations with all the parties involved, said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

Afghanistan was another key topic of discussion. Since the Talibans takeover in August 2021, the country has faced significant instability and humanitarian crises. Both leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region and continuing humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.

President Pezeshkian acknowledged Indias significant role in Irans accession to both the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS. President Pezeshkian acknowledged in particular the role that India played in Iran’s accession to both the SCO and BRICS, and both the leaders agreed to continue their cooperation within various multilateral platforms, including BRICS and SCO said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

Trade and Connectivity discussions

The discussion between Prime Minister Modi and President Pezeshkian placed significant emphasis on enhancing regional connectivity and economic partnerships, with a particular focus on the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

The Chabahar Port, located in southeastern Iran, serves as a gateway for India to access Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. The INSTC is a multi-modal transportation network that connects India, Iran, and Russia, extending to Europe and Central Asia. This corridor aims to reduce the time and cost of transporting goods between these regions, making it a vital component of regional connectivity.

These projects are crucial for enhancing regional connectivity and economic partnerships. The recent signing of the long-term main contract for the development of the Chabahar Port underscores the commitment of both countries to collaborate in these sectors. The contract, signed between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Irans Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO), is for the development and operation of the Shahid Beheshti Terminal at Chabahar Port and is set for a duration of 10 years.

The contract also aims to integrate Chabahar Port with the INSTC, creating a seamless trade route from India to Russia via Iran. This development is also significant for the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan and for enhancing trade, economic, and people-to-people linkages with Central Asian countries.

The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Pezeshkian highlighted the strong bilateral ties between India and Iran and their shared commitment to regional stability and development. The discussions underscored the importance of connectivity projects, humanitarian assistance, and diplomatic efforts to address regional conflicts, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two nations.