Iranian president arrives in India for BRICS summit

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in India on Friday for a BRICS summit, where the Middle East conflict will be a major topic of discussion, according to Indian broadcasters. This marks Pezeshkian's first visit to India as the nation's leader. The two-day summit commences on Saturday. Pezeshkian expressed during the summit that BRICS was established to counter unilateralism.

The group was originally created in 2009 to give voice to major emerging economies seeking greater influence in institutions dominated by Western powers. Today, it includes Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, three nations embroiled in conflict sparked by the US and Israel in February. Other high-profile attendees expected in New Delhi include Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

During his previous meeting with Pezeshkian in Bishkek, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to discuss energy matters and potential investment from India in Iran's Chabahar port. India has heavily invested in the port, viewing it as an alternative trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, avoiding Pakistan. However, recent conflicts have raised concerns about the port's security and long-term viability.

Meanwhile, US sanctions have complicated India's engagement with Iran. Pezeshkian will also hold talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as per the IRNA news agency.