New Delhi, March 12 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held talks with leaders of several Gulf countries over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, emphasising dialogue, diplomacy, and the protection of civilians, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said PM Modi has stressed the need for “dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace” while avoiding civilian casualties.
“The Prime Minister has spoken with several Gulf leaders since the conflict began and has stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace, while also emphasising the importance of avoiding civilian casualties. We have highlighted that the safety and welfare of the large Indian community in GCC countries is a top priority,” he said while briefing mediapersons.
“Our External Affairs Minister has also held three recent conversations with his Iranian counterpart, and we recognise that the conflict is impacting people and countries around the world.”
“The safety and welfare of the large Indian community in GCC countries is a top priority,” he added.
Jaiswal also noted that India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar has held three recent discussions with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, highlighting the wider global impact of the conflict.
The discussions focused on safeguarding maritime routes and protecting India’s energy security, while New Delhi also reaffirmed its support for dialogue and regional stability.
“The External Affairs Minister and the Foreign Minister of Iran have had three conversations in recent days. In the last one, they discussed issues pertaining to the safety of shipping and India’s energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything,” MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
The government highlighted the presence of around 9,000 Indian nationals currently in Iran, including seafarers, professionals, businesspeople, and pilgrims. Several advisories were issued earlier this year, including on January 14 and February 23, urging Indian citizens to remain cautious.
“We’ve had some 9,000 Indian nationals in Iran, including seafarers, businesspeople, professionals, and pilgrims. Many, mostly students, have sought assistance following advisories issued on January 14 and February 23,” he added.
Following advisories, many Indians, particularly students, have sought assistance from Indian missions.
“We are assisting them with visas and land border crossings. Several Indian nationals have approached us, and we have helped them cross into Azerbaijan and Armenia, from where they can fly back home. I would advise all Indian nationals wishing to leave Iran to use these land border routes where necessary,” Jaiswal said.
He also pointed to the GCC-led resolution that India has co-sponsored at the United Nations Security Council, which has received co-sponsorship from 135 countries.
he said, “The resolution reflects several of our positions. As you know, we have a large diaspora in the GCC countries, and their well-being and welfare are of utmost importance, the Gulf is also very important for our energy security.”
