Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi visits New Delhi to meet S. Jaishankar and co-chair the 20th Joint Commission meeting, significant for celebrating 75 years of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty. His visit takes place amid rising India-Pakistan tensions following a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir, which Iran has condemned, urging restraint between the two nations.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, is set to kick off his inaugural trip to New Delhi tonight. He will meet Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday, where they will co-chair the 20th Joint Commission meeting between India and Iran. Notably, this meeting coincides with the 75th anniversary of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty, allowing both nations to discuss the full scope of bilateral relations and consider new avenues for cooperation.
This year’s Joint Commission meeting is significant; it marks a return to dialogue after missed annual meetings caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and domestic issues faced by both countries. According to Iran’s Embassy in New Delhi, the focus will include reviewing the status of bilateral economic agreements and the follow-up on previous commitments made during these discussions.
Following the commission meeting, Minister Araghchi is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. His visit comes during a tense time, particularly after a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 civilians, many linked to Pakistan.
India’s response has involved precise missile strikes aimed at terrorist camps in both Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, raising significant concerns about escalating tensions. In the wake of these events, Iran has denounced the violence, describing the attack as a religiously-motivated incident. In a statement, Minister Araghchi said, “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.”
Iran’s Foreign Ministry has voiced apprehension regarding the unfolding military tensions between India and Pakistan, advising both nations to exercise calm and restraint. Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei acknowledged Tehran’s long-established relations with both countries, expressing hope for measures to avoid further escalation. Earlier this week, Araghchi had held discussions in Pakistan with his counterpart, Ishaq Dar, as part of his diplomatic endeavor in the region.
This visit by Minister Araghchi underscores not just the ties between Iran and India but also the delicate balance of diplomacy amid regional security challenges. As developments unfold, the international community will be closely observing the outcomes of this critical meeting.
In summary, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi’s visit to New Delhi marks a pivotal moment, coinciding with both the 75th anniversary of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty and rising tensions in the region. The discussions during the Joint Commission are expected to focus on fortifying bilateral ties and addressing current regional security challenges. Iran’s condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir emphasizes its stance on peace and stability in South Asia, seeking restraint from both India and Pakistan.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
