New Delhi: Iran has described its relationship with India as “very good” and of “great importance”, signalling its intent to deepen cooperation with New Delhi ahead of the upcoming BRICS Leaders’ Summit.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei highlighted the long standing historical and civilisational links between the two countries, while pointing to growing cooperation in trade and economic affairs.
Baghaei noted that India’s membership of both BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation provides an important platform for continued engagement between the two nations. He said Iran’s relations with India have continued to develop across several areas of mutual interest.
The remarks came ahead of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from September 11 to 13 under India’s chairship. Tehran is expected to use the gathering to continue discussions with India on key bilateral and regional issues.
Chabahar Port is likely to remain an important subject in the talks. Iran considers the strategic port significant for expanding connectivity and trade with India and the wider region. Both sides are also expected to explore broader areas of economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met on August 31 on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. Their meeting marked their first direct interaction since the West Asia conflict escalated earlier this year.
Iran’s renewed emphasis on ties with India comes as Washington continues to closely monitor countries maintaining economic engagement with Tehran. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that countries helping Iran circumvent sanctions could face punitive measures.
Despite the pressure, Iran has stressed the importance of maintaining its relationship with India, with the upcoming BRICS summit providing another opportunity for the two countries to advance discussions on trade, connectivity and other shared interests.
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