New Delhi: Amid rising maritime tensions and growing geopolitical friction in the Gulf region, Iran has assured India that the safety and security of Indian nationals living and working across West Asia remains a top priority for Tehran.
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, in an exclusive interview with ANI, emphasized that the protection of citizens from all countries in the region, including Indians, is of utmost importance to Iran.
“The security and peace of all nations in the region, including Indian citizens working and living in West Asia, are highly important to us,” the ambassador said.
He further underlined that ensuring the free flow of trade through the Persian Gulf is essential for the global economy. According to him, stability in the region benefits all countries as well as their economic partners, including India.
Fathali also highlighted the complementary strengths of India and Iran in sectors such as energy, transportation corridors, and maritime trade, stressing the need to further deepen bilateral cooperation.
Praising India’s global role, he described New Delhi as a “balanced power” and an important driver of multipolar diplomacy. He added that peace in the Persian Gulf directly supports the economic interests of both nations.
The ambassador noted that multilateral platforms such as BRICS could play a key role in promoting dialogue and reducing regional tensions. He pointed out that the recent visit of Iran’s Foreign Minister to India for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting reflected strong mutual interest in continued engagement.
“India, as a major global power and an influential member of BRICS, plays an important role in strengthening multilateralism, supporting dialogue, and reducing international tensions,” Fathali said.
However, Iran continues to maintain a firm stance in its negotiations with Western countries. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, recently stated that Tehran no longer relies on assurances or verbal commitments in talks with the West, insisting that only actions matter.
Despite its tough position in negotiations with Western powers, Iran reiterated its commitment to maintaining strong historical and civilizational ties with India and keeping diplomatic channels with New Delhi open.