Iran’s Foreign Minister Visits India Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will visit New Delhi, meeting with Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar to co-chair the 20th Joint Commission meeting, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty. The visit comes amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions following a deadly terrorist attack. Iran has condemned the violence and urges restraint from both sides.

Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, is set to begin his first visit to New Delhi this evening. On Thursday, he is scheduled to meet with his Indian counterpart, S. Jaishankar, to co-chair the 20th Joint Commission meeting between their nations. This meeting occurs against the backdrop of the 75th anniversary of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty, a significant milestone for both countries.

The Joint Commission typically convenes annually, but recent disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and internal issues within both nations have delayed these gatherings. Iran’s Embassy in New Delhi indicated that the meeting would focus on reviewing the current status of the bilateral economic agreements and ensuring effective follow-up during the discussions.

After the joint meeting, Mr. Araghchi is also expected to visit President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The timing of this visit is notable, as it coincides with escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, linked to organizations in Pakistan.

In response to the attacks, India has carried out missile strikes on terror camps across the border in Pakistan, including those in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Notably, Iran has condemned the terror attack vehemently. In a statement, Mr. Araghchi expressed Tehran’s solidarity with the victims, stating, “Iran strongly and unequivocally condemns the terrorist attack against tourists in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people & government of India.”

Furthermore, Iran’s Foreign Ministry has expressed concerns about the increasing military tensions in South Asia, urging restraint from both India and Pakistan. Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei emphasized Iran’s longstanding diplomatic relationships with both nations and stated that Tehran is monitoring the situation closely, hoping that steps will be taken to de-escalate further conflicts.

Earlier in the week, Mr. Araghchi was in Pakistan, meeting with Pakistani officials, including his counterpart Ishaq Dar. This visit underscores the complexities of regional politics as Iran seeks to maintain relations with both of its key neighbors.

The upcoming meeting between Iran and India comes at a critical juncture marked by heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Iran’s condemnation of terrorism reflects its position and concern regarding the stability in the region. With an emphasis on dialogue and bilateral cooperation, this visit may serve as a pivotal moment to reinforce connections and address escalations in military indicators along the borders.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com