New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Masoud Pezeshkian, who emerged victorious in Iran’s presidential elections. PM Modi expressed his keenness to collaborate closely with President Pezeshkian to bolster the enduring bilateral ties between India and Iran for the mutual benefit of both nations and the region.

Masoud Pezeshkian, representing the reformist faction, secured a decisive victory in the runoff, garnering over 16.3 million votes out of 30.5 million cast. His ultraconservative rival, Saeed Jalili, received more than 13.5 million votes. The voter turnout stood at 49.8%, as reported by Iran’s election headquarters under the interior ministry.

Pezeshkian’s election follows a snap election prompted by the tragic helicopter crash in May, which claimed the lives of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials. Notably, Pezeshkian led in the first round of voting, surpassing Jalili, amid the lowest voter turnout for an Iranian presidential election since 1979.

The new president assumes leadership at a challenging time, with Iran facing increasing international isolation, internal discontent, economic challenges, and potential tensions with Israel. Despite these difficulties, President Pezeshkian’s election marks a new chapter in Iran’s political landscape, with expectations for addressing both domestic issues and international relations.

PM Modi’s message underscores India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Iran under Pezeshkian’s leadership, emphasizing the strategic importance of their bilateral relationship amidst regional and global dynamics.