Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday said India can play a “greater and constructive role” in promoting peace and stability in West Asia, asserting that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to resolving the ongoing regional crisis.
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi during his visit for a BRICS conclave, Araghchi said there is no military solution to issues involving Iran and stressed that negotiations are essential for lasting peace in the region.
“There can be no solution other than a negotiated settlement for the West Asia crisis. We welcome any constructive role by India in this regard,” he said.
Referring to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the Iranian minister said the situation in the strategic waterway has become highly complicated, but maintained that Iran remains ready to facilitate safe passage of vessels through the region.
Speaking about ongoing negotiations with the United States, Araghchi said the talks continue to face a serious trust deficit.
“These negotiations are suffering from lack of trust. Iran has every reason not to trust the US, while Americans have every reason to trust us,” he remarked.
He also said that mediation efforts involving Pakistan have “not failed yet” and are still continuing.
Rejecting allegations surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, Araghchi reiterated that Tehran has never sought nuclear weapons and remains committed to peaceful objectives.(KINS)
