New Delhi/Tehran, May 8 (UNI) Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi today met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi to discuss issues of mutual interest as well as regional and international developments.
Araghchi, who is leading a diplomatic delegation, arrived in the Indian capital on Wednesday night to engage in talks with high-ranking Indian officials, IRNA reported.
During his meeting with EAM Jaishankar Araghchi referred to the longstanding relations between Iran and India, saying that Tehran is determined to expand ties with New Delhi across various areas of mutual interest.
He highlighted the importance of trade relations between the two countries, saying that the implementation of the 10-year cooperation agreement to develop the Iranian Chabahar port is crucial for both nations.
He also expressed satisfaction with the 20th joint economic commission, describing it as an excellent opportunity to enhance cooperation between the two sides.
He further emphasised the importance of security and stability in the South Asia region for Iran, “expressing hope for the resolution of tensions through the commitment of both Indian and Pakistani officials”.
The two ministers also discussed ways to strengthen economic, trade, and transport ties and agreed on the importance of multilateral diplomacy through regional and international platforms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. They also supported trilateral or quadrilateral cooperation with other regional countries in areas of shared interest.
Moreover, the two sides exchanged views on the latest political and security developments in South
Asia and West Asia, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to reduce tensions, safeguard peace and stability, and prevent further escalation of conflicts.
The Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also said Teran calls on India and Pakistan to exercise self-restraint and prevent an escalation of tension in the region.
Araghchi made the remarks while speaking to reporters upon his arrival in New Delhi.
“We seek a reduction of tension in the region, particularly for the expansion of economic cooperation among regional countries,” he said.
“This trip has been planned for a long time, and it was scheduled that this commission would take place,” the Iranian foreign minister added.
"At the same time, we have always had political consultations with India on regional and international issues,” Araghchi said.
He stressed the importance of holding close consultations between the two countries, particularly under the sensitive circumstances in the region.
Araghchi traveled to India following a one-day visit to Pakistan, where he engaged in discussions with senior officials, including Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
The MEA spokesperson said in a post on X:
“At the 20th India-Iran JCM, EAM @DrSJaishankar & FM
@araghchi witnessed the exchange of MoU on Implementation of the Bilateral Agreement on Customs Cooperation and MoU on Medical Products Regulation.”
EAM said in a post:
“Co-chaired the 20th India-Iran JCM along with FM @araghchi of Iran today in Delhi.
“Did a comprehensive review of our bilateral cooperation and agreed on next steps in many domains. Will be marking the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations in an appropriate manner.
“Also held wide-ranging discussions on regional and global developments.”
UNI RN