Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
The meeting comes at a sensitive time for the region, with tensions involving Iran and the United States continuing to affect geopolitical and economic conditions. It was also the first face-to-face meeting between Modi and Pezeshkian since the conflict between Iran and the US began in February.
The two leaders’ discussions were held behind closed doors, and details of the issues raised during the meeting were not immediately made public.
Strait of Hormuz Could Be Key Issue
One of the possible issues of significance in the talks is the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route whose disruption has raised concerns about international trade and supply chains.
India has consistently called for de-escalation in the region and stressed that disputes should be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
Modi has remained in contact with the Iranian leadership since the escalation began in February. During these interactions, India has repeatedly emphasised the importance of regional peace, stability and uninterrupted global supply chains.
Modi, Pezeshkian Were Last in Contact in June
Modi and Pezeshkian last spoke over the phone on June 30, when the Indian Prime Minister discussed the deteriorating situation in the region with his Iranian counterpart.
During that conversation, Modi reiterated India’s position that outstanding disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also expressed India’s commitment to promoting peace and stability.
Modi had also thanked Pezeshkian for helping ensure the safety of Indian citizens in Iran amid the regional tensions.
The latest meeting in Bishkek provides the two leaders with another opportunity to discuss developments in the region and matters affecting India’s interests, although an official account of their conversation is awaited.
