Iran war: PM Modi, Trump discuss West Asia tensions in 40-minute phone call
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump held their first phone conversation since Washington and Tehran reached a ceasefire agreement, on Tuesday. During the approximately 40-minute call, the two leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and bilateral cooperation, while also stressing the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure.
Following the conversation, PM Modi posted online that India and the United States remain committed to deepening their strategic partnership across all areas.
“Received a call from my friend President Donald Trump. We reviewed the substantial progress achieved in our bilateral cooperation in various sectors,” the post said.
He further stated, “We are committed to further strengthening our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership in all areas. We also discussed the situation in West Asia and stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure.”
India has welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, while expressing hope that it will pave the way for lasting peace in West Asia. India has consistently supported de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy to bring an early end to the ongoing conflict.
New Delhi believes the conflict has already caused significant hardship for people and has disrupted global energy supplies and trade routes. At the same time, India has highlighted its expectation that freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of global commerce should continue without obstruction through the Strait of Hormuz.
Previous discussion between the two leaders
The last phone call between the two leaders took place on March 24, when PM Modi conveyed India’s support for de-escalation and an early restoration of peace in the Middle East.
During that conversation, both leaders also underlined that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, secure and accessible is vital for global stability and trade.
Ceasefire situation between US and Iran
The United States and Iran are currently observing a fragile two-week ceasefire as diplomatic efforts continue towards a second round of talks. These discussions follow earlier negotiations held in Pakistan over recent weeks that did not result in a breakthrough agreement.
With agency inputs