Araghchi in India: Iran seeks reduction of tensions, region requires peace

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran calls on India and Pakistan to exercise self-restraint and prevent an escalation of tension in the region.

Araghchi made the remarks while speaking to reporters upon his arrival in New Delhi on Thursday as tensions rise over a deadly attack in Kashmir. 

“We seek a reduction of tension in the region, particularly for the expansion of economic cooperation among regional countries,” he said.

The top diplomat noted that he would discuss the latest developments in the region in a meeting with his Indian counterpart.

India and Pakistan engaged in heavy artillery exchanges along their contested frontier early Wednesday, following New Delhi’s launch of “Operation Sindoor,” a series of missile strikes targeting sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

At least 31 civilians were killed and 46 others injured in the Indian airstrikes and ensuing border shelling in Pakistan and Pakistan-run Kashmir.

Araghchi further said his visit to New Delhi is aimed at participating in the joint economic commission of the two countries.

“This trip has been planned for a long time, and it was scheduled that this commission would take place,” the Iranian foreign minister added.

He noted that the sides would review bilateral economic cooperation, which is very important.

“At the same time, we have always had political consultations with India on regional and international issues,” Araghchi said.

He stressed the importance of holding close consultations between the two countries, particularly under the sensitive circumstances in the region.

During a televised speech late on Wednesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned India’s deadly attacks, saying Islamabad will retaliate for “every drop of blood” spilled in the raids.

Sharif warned that New Delhi will have to “pay the price” for its “grave mistake,” adding, “We make this pledge, that we will avenge each drop of the blood of these martyrs.”

Iran, India will sign bilateral documents to enhance cooperation: Iran Foreign Ministry  

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said during Araghchi’s official visit, Iran and India will sign documents for cooperation in various fields.

In a post on his X account on Thursday, Baghaei added that the two sides will review the mutual relationship and consult on regional and international developments during the foreign minister’s visit. 

“FM Araghchi and his Indian counterpart @DrSJaishankar will co-chair the 20th Iran-India Joint Commission (JCM) & sign a number of bilateral documents to enhance cooperation on areas of economy, customs and health,” the Iranian spokesperson wrote.

He noted that bonds of friendship between the two countries are deeply rooted in history and provide a solid ground for mutually beneficial relations.

Baghaei urged both Tehran and New Delhi to work together to “strengthen peace, security and stability across the regions and beyond.”

Araghchi traveled to India following a one-day visit to Pakistan, where he engaged in discussions with senior officials.

The Iranian foreign minister and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, agreed to build a strong foundation for “economic and strategic” cooperation in the region.