New Delhi, Mar 13: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held fresh talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi as India stepped up efforts to ensure safe passage for its merchant vessels near the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
The two leaders spoke over phone on Thursday night, marking their fourth conversation since the regional crisis began. They had earlier spoken on February 28, March 5 and March 10 following the escalation of hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
In a social media post, Jaishankar said the discussion covered bilateral issues as well as matters related to BRICS cooperation.
The talks come as India seeks safe navigation for 28 merchant vessels, including Indian-flagged ships, currently positioned on either side of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route that has faced disruptions after Tehran partially restricted movement amid the conflict.
According to an Iranian readout, Araghchi briefed Jaishankar on the latest developments following what Tehran described as “aggressions and crimes” by the US and Israel, and their impact on regional and global stability.
The Iranian foreign minister reiterated Tehran’s resolve to exercise its “legitimate right to self-defence” and stressed the need for international and regional organisations to condemn military actions against Iran.
Araghchi also underlined the importance of the BRICS forum in promoting multilateral cooperation and called for its constructive role in supporting regional peace and stability.
He further emphasised that strengthening stability and sustainable security in the region is a collective responsibility of the international community. (Agencies)
