Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns over the situation around the Strait of Hormuz.
This was their first face-to-face meeting since the conflict began in the Middle East in February. While details of their discussion have not been officially disclosed, regional security and developments around the Strait of Hormuz are expected to have been among the key issues.
Pezeshkian Says Iran Does Not Want War
Before travelling to Bishkek, Iranian President Pezeshkian said Tehran does not seek war but would respond firmly to any aggression. He also warned that instability in the region could harm all countries and stressed the need for greater coordination on economic and security matters.
PM Modi Meets Armenia’s Prime Minister
During the SCO Summit, Modi also held talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The two leaders discussed strengthening cooperation in areas including defence, trade, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, culture and education.
They also exchanged views on major regional and global developments, including the situation in West Asia. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to expanding and deepening its partnership with Armenia.
Modi-Putin Meeting Expected
Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for bilateral talks during his Kyrgyzstan visit. He will additionally attend the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov.
