Modi, Aliyev meet for first time as India, Azerbaijan seek to reset ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev on the margins of the SCO Summit, in what was the first-ever meeting between the two leaders, signalling nascent steps towards improving political ties against the backdrop of lukewarm relations that were further adversely impacted following the Pakistan-sponsored Pahalgam terror attacks.

Aliyev, who was in Bishkek to participate in the SCO Plus Format meeting, met Modi on the margins of the gathering. The two were seen seated on a sofa exchanging views in what can be described as an icebreaker in political ties.

Earlier, Modi, Aliyev and the Russian President were seen walking together at the SCO Summit venue. Later, Modi wrote on X, along with a picture, that he had interacted with the President of Azerbaijan. Earlier this year, New Delhi and Baku held foreign office consultations after almost four years.


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The attempt to build confidence comes against the backdrop of a peace deal between India's strategic partner Armenia and Azerbaijan, and Armenia's decision to establish diplomatic ties with Pakistan.

Modi also met Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon on the margins of the Summit as part of efforts to engage the country, which is locked in a contest with India for the UNSC non-permanent seat for 2028-29.