PM Modi holds bilateral meetings with leaders of Iran, Kyrgyzstan & Armenia in Bishkek

Bishkek, August 31
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. The two leaders discussed bilateral ties. They also discussed the recent developments in the West Asia conflict and shared perspectives on the evolving situation.

Prime Minister expressed concern at the escalation of tensions in the region and reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. Prime Minister also reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region. Calling for safeguarding the freedom of navigation and commerce, he emphasized that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers, must not be harmed under any circumstances.

Later, the Prime Minister also met President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov today. The two leaders reviewed the progress made in bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Strategic Partnership between India and the Kyrgyz Republic. They agreed to further enhance economic and commercial cooperation, taking into account the complementarities between the two economies. They also discussed growing people-to-people ties, including through student exchanges and cultural collaborations.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi met PM of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, in Bishkek. The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across various areas, including defence, economic, pharma, science & technology, culture and education. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Kyrgyzstan. Tomorrow, he will address the 26th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.