Mojtaba Khamenei thanks PM Modi for Eid greetings, calls for stronger India-Iran ties
Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Eid al-Adha greetings, while highlighting the importance of strengthening ties between India and Iran.
In his message, the Iranian leader noted India’s important role in regional cooperation. He also warmly reciprocated the goodwill extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and strategic ties shared between India and Iran.
In the official communication, Khamenei said, "His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of the Republic of India, I have received Your Excellency's message of congratulations on the occasion of the blessed Eid al-Adha."
He further added, "While expressing my sincere appreciation and extending my reciprocal congratulations, I am confident that the historic friendship between our two countries, founded on mutual respect and shared interests, will continue to be further strengthened and expanded through the efforts of our two governments. I pray to Almighty God for the prosperity and continued success of the Government and the great people of India."
This exchange marks the first known direct communication from Mojtaba Khamenei to PM Modi since he assumed the role of Supreme Leader.
The outreach comes at a time of significant political transition in Tehran. Reports suggest Mojtaba Khamenei has not made any public appearance since taking office due to serious injuries sustained during recent US military strikes.
Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to attend the state funeral and burial ceremonies of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for 36 years, died following a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28, marking a major turning point in the country’s leadership and triggering high-level diplomatic activity in the region.
With agency inputs