PM Modi and Iran's Pezeshkian meet on BRICS sidelines amid West Asia tensions

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

The meeting comes as tensions between Iran and the United States threaten to intensify, raising fears of further disruption to global energy supplies as oil prices cross $100.

It was the second meeting between the two leaders in quick succession, following their brief interaction at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek earlier this month.

PM Modi expressed concern over the conflict and reiterated India’s position that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

He called for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial vessels and seafarers. He also stressed that freedom of navigation and commerce must not be disrupted.

The meeting carried particular significance for India, which depends heavily on energy imports, has thousands of citizens working across the region and views Iran as an important link to Afghanistan and Central Asia through the Chabahar port.

Earlier at the BRICS Business Summit, PM Modi was seen holding hands with Pezeshkian in a photograph that captured India’s continued diplomatic engagement with Iran despite the conflict.PEZESHKIAN SEEKS REDUCED RELIANCE ON DOLLAR

Addressing the Business Summit before the bilateral talks, Pezeshkian urged BRICS countries to expand trade in national currencies and reduce their reliance on the US dollar.

He also proposed a joint reinsurance fund with an initial capital of $10 billion to cover risks associated with major infrastructure and energy projects.

Pezeshkian called for closer integration of trade and transport networks, digital customs procedures and fewer regulatory barriers. He also sought a larger role for the New Development Bank in financing projects across BRICS countries.

The Iranian president proposed greater cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, common industrial standards and cross-border markets.

Highlighting Iran’s energy reserves and strategic location, Pezeshkian said the country could play an important role in BRICS supply chains for energy, food and transport.

He also called on the BRICS Business Council to move beyond discussions and set measurable targets for trade, national-currency settlements and private investment.- EndsPublished By: Aprameya RaoPublished On: Sep 11, 2026 19:30 IST