Prime Minister Narendra Modi today held separate bilateral meetings with the leaders of Iran, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia on the sidelines of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek.
During his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed recent developments in the West Asia conflict. They exchanged views on the evolving regional situation.
Prime Minister Modi expressed concern over the escalation of tensions and reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Mr. Modi called for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and emphasised that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers, must not be harmed under any circumstances.
The Prime Minister also met Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov and reviewed the progress in bilateral relations. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Strategic Partnership between India and Kyrgyzstan.
They agreed to enhance economic and commercial cooperation, while also discussing growing people-to-people ties, including student exchanges and cultural collaborations.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi met Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas including defence, economy, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, culture and education.
They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the situation in West Asia.
Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Kyrgyzstan. He will address the 26th Summit of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation tomorrow.
