EAM Jaishankar, Araghchi Discuss Bilateral Relations

New Delhi

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi co-chaired the 20th India-Iran Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) in New Delhi, reviewing the full scope of bilateral cooperation. Discussions covered trade, agriculture, health, connectivity, cultural ties, and people-to-people exchanges. Both nations also addressed key regional and global issues, including terrorism. India briefed Iran on the cross-border links to the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

The two sides condemned terrorism in all forms and agreed on the need for stronger regional cooperation to counter it. MoUs were signed on medical product regulation and customs cooperation. Both countries also agreed to take a humanitarian approach on matters related to prisoners, fishermen, and students, and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely in international forums.

Jaishankar welcomed Araghchi and recalled recent interactions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, including meetings in Kazan and a phone call in April 2024. He noted that 2025 marks 75 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries and emphasized the importance of the partnership.

Jaishankar also mentioned India’s Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam attack, stating that India’s action was targeted and measured, warning of a firm response to any military threats.

During his visit, Araghchi met with President Droupadi Murmu and NSA Ajit Doval. President Murmu highlighted the deep civilizational ties between India and Iran, calling the visit significant in the context of the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship.