BRICS sideline: Jaishankar holds crucial talks with Iran as West Asia tensions

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi.

Sharing details of the interaction on X, Jaishankar wrote: “Had a detailed conversation with FM Abbas Araghchi of Iran this morning in Delhi.”

Providing further details, the minister said the discussions focused on developments in West Asia and their broader implications, while both leaders also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest.

Jaishankar also appreciated Araghchi’s participation in the high-level BRICS gathering.

The Iranian minister is in India to attend the BRICS Summit, where leaders are deliberating on key geopolitical and economic issues.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with foreign ministers and heads of delegation from BRICS nations.

“BRICS has emerged as an important platform for advancing cooperation among emerging economies and giving voice to the aspirations of the Global South,” Modi said in a post on X while sharing images from the interaction.

He added, “Under India’s Chairmanship this year, we will work together to strengthen multilateralism, promote sustainable development, enhance economic resilience, and build a more inclusive world order.”

India is hosting the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting from May 14 to 15, with participation from foreign ministers and senior delegates from member and partner countries.

In his remarks at the summit, Jaishankar underscored the importance of diplomacy amid rising global tensions.

“Peace and security issues remain central to the global order. Recent conflicts only underline the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. There is also a deeply shared interest in strengthening cooperation against terrorism,” he said.

The ongoing tensions in the Middle East are being closely watched globally, given their potential impact on international energy markets and broader economic stability.