India discussed safety of shipping and energy security with Iran, MEA says

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar discussed safety of shipping and India's energy security amid the ongoing Middle East war in his last call with Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi in his last call, a government official informed on Thursday.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said, "External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Foreign Minister of Iran have had three conversations in recent days. The last one discussed issues pertaining to the safety of shipping and India's energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything."

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Jaishankar had his latest conversation with Araghchi on March 10 amid increasing concerns over the fallout of the West Asia crisis, especially on the energy supplies to India.

"A detailed conversation this evening with Foreign Minister Araghchi of Iran on the latest developments regarding the ongoing conflict. We agreed to remain in touch," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

The EAM conveyed India's deep concern over the developments in Iran and the region to Araghchi.

Since the onset of the conflict in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to several leaders in the Gulf. He stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy so that early peace can return, Jaiswal said.

Also read: First India-bound vessel with crude oil reaches Mumbai via Strait of Hormuz amid war

"PM Modi also underlined the need to avoid civilian casualties and he focused on the protection of civilians," Jaiswal said, adding that we have a large Indian community in the GCC countries and their security and welfare are of utmost importance.

India has highlighted the issue of the safety of its nationals in these countries, and also in several cases, condemned the violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, the MEA spokesperson reiterated.

On the reports of Indian vessels being allowed to cross the Strait of Hormuz, he said it was premature for him to comment on the same, and stated officials from the shipping ministry might have more details on the same.

Safety of Indian nationals in Tehran

The Indian government has been coordinating with the Embassy in Iran for the safe evacuation of Indian nationals dwelling in the country.

There are around 9,000 Indian nationals in Iran, including students, seafarers, businesspeople, professionals and pilgrims, the MEA spokesperson said, adding that many students have returned home.

"We have shifted several Indians from Tehran to safer locations and are assisting those who wish to leave via Azerbaijan and Armenia with visas and land border crossings so they can take commercial flights back," he said. "Our mission in Tehran remains in constant touch with the community and is providing all possible assistance.”