Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 8: In a significant diplomatic engagement, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in New Delhi on Thursday, co-chairing the 20th India-Iran Joint Commission Meeting during a period of heightened regional security concerns.
EAM Jaishankar used the occasion to address the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, in which Indian civilians were killed, and India’s subsequent targeted airstrikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan on May 7.
“Our response was targeted and measured. It is not our intention to escalate the situation. However, any military attacks on us will invite a very, very firm response,” Jaishankar told his Iranian counterpart, emphasizing India’s approach as proportionate and responsible.
India Briefs Iran on Regional Situation
With Iran voicing concern over the growing India-Pakistan tension and calling for restraint, Jaishankar assured Araghchi that India seeks de-escalation, while also asserting its right to defend national security. He added that Iran, as a close neighbour and strategic partner, deserves a clear understanding of India’s security position.
Deepening Bilateral Ties
The meeting coincided with the 75th anniversary of India-Iran diplomatic relations, and both ministers reiterated the commitment to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Recent progress in economic ties, energy, infrastructure, and regional connectivity was acknowledged, while challenges were also openly addressed.
Key outcomes from the meeting included:
• Signing of MoUs on:
o Implementation of the Bilateral Agreement on Customs Cooperation
o Regulation of Medical Products
• Recognition of leadership-level engagement between PM Narendra Modi and President Masoud Pezeshkian, with meetings in Kazan (Oct 2024) and a recent phone call on April 26.
Jaishankar described the anniversary as a moment to “reflect on the depth of India-Iran friendship,” rooted in shared history, civilizational ties, and strategic interests.
Regional Dynamics
Araghchi, who visited Pakistan earlier this week, arrived in New Delhi with a political delegation to review bilateral relations and consult on regional security issues. Ahead of his arrival, Iranian spokesperson Esmail Baqaei posted that both countries must “work together to strengthen peace, security, and stability” in the region.
Araghchi reiterated Iran’s strong condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, calling it a “terrorist act against innocent civilians” and offering condolences.