Amid efforts by the United States to isolate Iran during a protracted conflict, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reached out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The interaction took place at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
The meeting occurred when U.S. President Donald Trump threatened strong action against Iran following attacks on an American base in Jordan. Pezeshkian’s dialogue with Modi focused on opposing the conflict. Rajeev Agrawal, a former Indian Army colonel, called the meeting significant, noting it was the first in-person meeting between the leaders since the conflict’s outbreak in February.
Significant Statements by Pezeshkian
Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran seeks peace, while criticizing the U.S. for choosing warfare and not honoring a memorandum with Iran. By voicing Iran’s willingness to expand cooperation with India, Pezeshkian sought support from the Indian government. Modi responded by underscoring the importance of peace and safeguarding commercial navigation.
Iran’s past actions, including attacks in the Persian Gulf, have strained relations with various countries, including India. Despite these challenges, India advocates for de-escalation and criticized U.S. actions that resulted in Iranian casualties.
The Role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
The SCO, established in 2001, offers a multilateral platform beyond Western influence, including countries like China, Russia, and India. Agrawal noted that while SCO might not provide direct aid to Iran, it allows Iran to share its perspective globally.
Ali Ahmadi from the Geneva Centre for Security Policy commented that the SCO is not an Asian NATO, but it is a valuable platform for Iran to engage economically and politically with non-Western countries. Iran sees the SCO as a means to counter its isolation and explore overland trade routes amidst a U.S. blockade.
India’s Strategic Diplomatic Moves
India’s diplomatic strategy remains complex, balancing relationships amid regional power dynamics. Despite tensions with China and Pakistan, both SCO members, India continues to engage diplomatically.
New Delhi has been active in developing ties across the globe, including increased cooperation with the U.S. under Trump’s administration, although challenges remain, such as tariffs and controversial statements.
As relations with Iran develop, India sees economic and strategic opportunities, particularly in the context of connectivity projects and regional stability. India’s approach involves maintaining open dialogue with Iran to ensure continuity in key projects like the Chabahar port development.