India's Modi stresses need to protect navigation, seafarers in talks with Iran's Pezeshkian

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the eve of the Brics summit in New Delhi. During the discussions, Modi emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of navigation, commerce, and the safety of seafarers. The talks took place ahead of the Brics summit, which will bring together leaders from India, China, Iran, Russia, and South Africa.

India's strategic ties with Iran, along with its strong relationships with Israel and Arab countries, have put the nation in a precarious position amid ongoing regional conflicts. The Prime Minister reiterated India's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. This meeting marked the second time in two weeks that the leaders had met, with their previous conversation occurring on August 31 during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan.

During the Bishkek summit, India had signed a joint declaration condemning the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran and Western sanctions.