Bishkek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s stand on safeguarding the freedom of navigation and commerce, and emphasized that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers must not be harmed under any circumstances, during a bilateral meeting with Masoud Pezeshkian, president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek, on Monday.
A number of Indian seafarers have been killed around the Strait of Hormuz during the US-Iran War that has been on since February 28.
India’s transportation of vital oil cargo along the route has also been affected. The PM’s concerns came at a time when Iran and Oman are planning to control the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz and impose fees for passage.
The two leaders discussed bilateral ties and the recent developments in the West Asia conflict and shared perspectives on the evolving situation. Prime Minister Modi expressed concern at the escalation of tensions in the region and reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
He also reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Reiterating India’s readiness to closely cooperate with Iran in multilateral organizations, including BRICS and SCO, the Prime Minister conveyed that he looked forward to welcoming president Pezeshkian to India for the BRICS Summit.
