PM modi and president pezeshkian hold bilateral talks to strengthen india iran
Iranian President Pezeshkian Hopes for Enhanced Cooperation with India During BRICS Summit
New Delhi, India — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed optimism on Friday that his discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pave the way for new collaborative opportunities in sectors such as culture, technology, trade, science, and the economy. Addressing a gathering of Indian religious leaders, intellectuals, and business leaders on Friday evening, President Pezeshkian arrived in the capital earlier in the day to participate in the BRICS summit.
Gratitude for India's Hospitality
According to the translation of his speech, the Iranian President remarked:
"First of all, I express my gratitude to the Government of India and the Prime Minister for their magnificent hospitality. We have had very productive discussions. I hope these talks and our relationship will open new avenues for cooperation in culture, technology, trade, science, the economy, and other fields. Together, we can revitalize these connections."
During his address, the Iranian President also directed sharp criticism toward the United States and Israel regarding the conflict that commenced in February, accusing them of attempting to intimidate Iran. He asserted that Iran would never surrender and would respond to such provocations.
Defiance Against Intimidation
The President emphasized Iran's resilience in the face of international pressure:
"Today, Iran stands successfully against both Israel and the United States simultaneously; they seek to intimidate us, but we refuse to bow. We will never bow to them. If they push us, we will push back. They claim to be advocates of human rights, but the truth is they are the ones acting as terrorists, using modern technology to kill 168 schoolchildren in an instant. You call us terrorists? What of those who kill humans, bomb scientists, and attack schools and hospitals?"
He further added that the Iranian people would not be coerced into submission.
"If you have courage, fight soldiers and military personnel. Why target infrastructure and the livelihoods of civilians? The people of Iran will not surrender. We believe in human values and believe that all living beings—all of humanity—possess equal rights."
This meeting in New Delhi marked the second encounter between Prime Minister Modi and President Pezeshkian in less than two weeks, following their previous meeting during the SCO summit in Bishkek on August 31.
Discussions on Bilateral Relations and Regional Stability
The two leaders engaged in discussions covering various aspects of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for Iran's consistent and high-level participation in BRICS meetings, despite the prevailing challenging circumstances. He highlighted the potential of BRICS to foster resilience, innovation, cooperation, and stability among the nations of the Global South. He also thanked President Pezeshkian for attending the leaders' session at the BRICS Business Forum.
According to a release from the Prime Minister's Office, the leaders also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia.
Emphasis on Dialogue and Diplomacy
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's well-established stance that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He underscored the necessity of continuous efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, protect the freedom of navigation and trade, and safeguard the safety and well-being of seafarers. The Prime Minister also commended the ongoing cooperation between both nations on matters of mutual interest within multilateral organizations, including BRICS.
(Input: ANI)
See also: India can lead BRICS effectively: Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi