Amid US-Iran war, Indian premier urges ‘continued efforts’ for Mideast peace

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called for “continued efforts” for Middle East peace in a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Modi held talks with Pezeshkian in New Delhi on the sidelines of the BRICS bloc summit scheduled for the weekend.

The two leaders discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship and also exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East, a statement by India’s Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday evening.

Prime Minister Modi “reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy,” the statement said.

“He also underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and the safety and well-being of seafarers,” the ministry said.

The meeting between Modi and Pezeshkian came as New Delhi is hosting a summit of the BRICS bloc amid the ongoing war between the US and Iran.

BRICS, originally known as the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa grouping, has expanded to include several other countries.