Bishkek : Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday on the sidelines of the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, marking an important diplomatic engagement amid continuing tensions in West Asia.
The meeting was the first face-to-face interaction between the two leaders since the outbreak of the conflict involving Iran earlier this year. Modi and Pezeshkian had remained in contact through telephone conversations, including discussions on developments in West Asia and the need for lasting peace and stability.
Regional tensions dominate discussions
The talks come at a sensitive time, with security concerns in West Asia affecting energy supplies, shipping routes and the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
India has consistently called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts. The Strait of Hormuz, energy security and the safety of Indian seafarers are expected to remain important concerns for New Delhi as the regional situation continues to evolve.
The two leaders are also expected to discuss bilateral ties and issues of mutual interest, including connectivity and India’s strategic engagement with Iran.
SCO brings major powers together
Modi is attending the two-day SCO summit in Bishkek from August 31 to September 1. The summit marks 25 years of the SCO, with leaders discussing regional security, connectivity, trade and wider international developments.
India became a full member of the SCO in 2017. Modi is also holding meetings with other leaders on the sidelines of the summit as India seeks to strengthen its engagement with Central Asia and other partner countries.
The Bishkek meeting with Pezeshkian is expected to further underline India’s diplomatic outreach at a time when developments across West Asia continue to have wider global implications.