Patna, July 1 (IANS) Reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the BJP on Wednesday described the interaction as a significant step towards strengthening India-Iran relations while reiterating New Delhi’s commitment to peace, stability, and dialogue in West Asia.

Speaking to IANS, BJP Bihar President Sanjay Saraogi said, “Prime Minister Modi is a global leader and one of the most popular leaders in the world. He discusses global issues and also raises India’s concerns. A large quantity of petroleum products reached India through the Strait of Hormuz, and he has conveyed India’s concerns regarding the security of this crucial maritime route.”

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said, “Prime Minister Modi has consistently emphasised that stability, security, and peace in different regions are essential. He has repeatedly stated that solutions to crises should be achieved through dialogue, coordination, and mutual understanding rather than conflict.”

BJP National Spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain said, “Prime Minister Modi held a conversation with the President of Iran. This is seen as a step towards strengthening India-Iran relations. India and Iran share a long-standing friendship. India maintains cordial relations with different countries and does not align itself with any particular bloc.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation with President Pezeshkian, who briefed him on the latest developments and the way forward in the West Asia crisis.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), he welcomed the understanding reached and reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

The Prime Minister also stressed the need for sustained efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region while underscoring the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route for India’s energy security and global trade.

Sharing a post on X after the conversation, PM Modi said, “Spoke with the President of Iran, Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, on the recent developments in West Asia.”

“Welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that continued efforts will lead to lasting peace in the region. Reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait for India and the world,” he added.

The phone call comes amid intensified diplomatic efforts to preserve the fragile understanding reached between Iran and Washington after months of conflict and escalating tensions in the region.

Earlier, President Pezeshkian had also invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the burial ceremonies of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, scheduled to be held from July 5 to 9.

–IANS

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