Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian, exchanging Eid and Nowruz greetings and discussing the security situation in West Asia.
During the conversation, PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and underlined the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and keep shipping lanes open and secure.
This was the second phone call between the two leaders in the past 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.
He added, “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.”
The two leaders had last spoken on March 12, when PM Modi expressed concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, including civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. He had also repeated India’s position that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
At that time, the Prime Minister had stressed the need for uninterrupted movement of goods and energy, saying disruptions could have wider consequences for India’s economy and regional stability.
Pezeshkian had briefed PM Modi on the situation in Iran and shared his view on recent developments in the region.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi have also spoken several times in recent weeks after the conflict began on February 28.
Besides reviewing the security situation, the two ministers discussed shipping safety, bilateral cooperation and BRICS-related matters, with India currently chairing the grouping and Iran being a member.
Earlier this week, Finnish President Alexander Stubb suggested that India could play a role in easing tensions between the United States and Iran. In an interview with Bloomberg, he said global efforts should focus on stopping hostilities and opening channels for dialogue.
“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.
-IANS
