BRICS 2026: Hand-in-hand Modi, Pezeshkian talk Hormuz, Chabahar & ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and discussed the situation in West Asia, stressing the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguard freedom of navigation and commerce, and ensure the safety and well-being of seafarers.

During their meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, their second in less than two weeks, the two leaders are understood to have discussed trade ties and connectivity initiatives, including safeguarding India's interests at Chabahar Port.

They had earlier met on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek on August 31. It was Pezeshkian's maiden visit to India as Iranian President.


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As the two leaders approached the BRICS Business Forum, Modi was seen holding the Iranian President's hand, with Russian President Vladimir Putin on his other side - an image that sent a message to world capitals and showcased India's balanced policy.

The meeting assumes significance amid continuing US-Iran tensions. India and Iran have held successful negotiations over the past five months to ensure the safe passage of commercial ships bound for India through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Prime Minister reiterated India's position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

The two leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral ties. Modi thanked Iran for its regular, high-level participation in BRICS-related meetings despite the challenging circumstances. He noted BRICS' potential to foster resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability among countries of the Global South, according to a MEA readout.

He also thanked Pezeshkian for participating in the Leaders' Session of the BRICS Business Forum.

The Prime Minister appreciated continued cooperation between the two sides on issues of mutual interest in multilateral organisations, including BRICS.

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Ahead of Pezeshkian's visit, Iran described its ties with India as "very good" and said it attached "great importance" to the relationship.

Since the war, Modi and Pezeshkian have also held three telephone conversations on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the conflict. Following their meeting in Bishkek, Modi had posted on X: "Reiterated our commitment to strengthening India's long-standing friendship with Iran across diverse sectors. We want to expand and diversify our trade basket in the times to come."

The statement signalled India's willingness to expand trade ties with Iran amid US sanctions on the Persian Gulf state.

Mirwaiz Meets Pezeshkian in Delhi

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi on Friday. The meeting was hosted by Iranian Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali and attended by religious leaders, intellectuals and other dignitaries, followed by a dinner reception.