Telephone Conversation Between Leaders
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the latest developments in West Asia and the way forward during a telephone conversation. PM Modi welcomed the understanding reached and reiterated that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, according to a press release from the Prime Minister's Office.
President Pezeshkian updated Prime Minister Modi on recent regional developments and the future course of negotiations. PM Modi reaffirmed India's consistent position that disputes must be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
Emphasis on Lasting Peace and Maritime Security
The Prime Minister stressed the need for sustained efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in West Asia. He underlined the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, particularly in view of the region's strategic maritime routes.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated: "Spoke with the President of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the recent developments in West Asia. Welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that continued efforts will lead to lasting peace in the region. Reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait for India and the World."
Third Conversation Since Conflict Erupted
This was the third conversation between the two leaders since the conflict erupted in West Asia on February 28 between Israel and the US on one side and Iran on the other. The leaders previously spoke on March 12 and March 21. During those conversations, PM Modi highlighted India's priority regarding the safety and well-being of Indian nationals in the region, including in Iran, as well as the importance of unhindered transit of energy and goods. He extended greetings on Navroz and Eid.
Background of US-Iran MoU
The talks come days after the virtual signing of a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran, which spells out provisions for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and easing of financial restrictions on Iran.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that Tehran has "no plans" to hold any meetings with the United States in the coming days at any level, even as diplomatic engagements continue separately in Doha on the implementation of the 14-point MoU aimed at ending hostilities in West Asia. According to Iranian state media IRIB, Baghaei said: "Basically, we have no plans to meet with the American side at any level in the next few days." He clarified that discussions scheduled in Doha are technical-level talks linked to the implementation of previously agreed understandings, including issues related to frozen Iranian assets. "What will be done in Doha tomorrow is a discussion on the implementation of clauses of the memorandum of understanding, including the release of Iran's frozen assets, which is with the Qatari side," he said.
