Photo MEA
Andalib Akhter / New Delhi
India’s External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj today held ‘constructive discussions’ with Foreign Minister of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif here today. Both leaders had consultations on most recent developments in the region as well as on the bilateral relations. The meeting assumes significance in the backdrop of the end of six-month exemptions from US sanctions to India and seven other countries to buy oil from Iran.
“Sushma Swaraj and Iranian Foreign Minister Javed Zarif held constructive discussions on all bilateral issues of mutual interest. Good exchange of views on the evolving regional situation, including Afghanistan” said MEA in a statement.
Mr Zarif arrived in New Delhi last evening on a two-day visit to India.
Talking to media at the airport on arrival, Mr Zarif said, India is one of the most important partners of Iran and both countries have regular consultations on various issues.
On US-Iran conflict, he said, unfortunately, the United States has been escalating the situation unnecessarily. Mr Zarif said, Iran does not seek escalation but it has always defended itself.
The Iranian Foreign Minister’s visit comes after as six-month exemptions from US sanctions to India and seven other countries to buy oil from Iran ended.