New Delhi [India]: In the backdrop of heightened regional tensions, India and Iran held the20th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) in New Delhi on Thursday, co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi, marking a major milestone in 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The meeting covered a wide range of bilateral issues, including trade and economic cooperation, agriculture, healthcare, cultural exchanges, connectivity, and people-to-people ties, according to a press release from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In a key development, both countries strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and emphasized the need for enhanced regional cooperation to combat the growing threat. The Indian delegation briefed Iran on the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and its cross-border linkages. In response, Jaishankar described India’s counter-operation, “Operation Sindoor,” as a “measured and targeted” response to the killings of 26 Indian civilians.
Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance:
“India will give a firm response to any military aggression. Operation Sindoor was a reflection of our resolve and responsibility.”
The two sides also welcomed the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) related to Medical Products Regulation and the Implementation of the Bilateral Agreement on Customs Cooperation. Furthermore, they committed to adopting a humanitarian approach on issues concerning prisoners, seafarers, fishermen, and students, and pledged to strengthen coordination in multilateral fora.
In his opening remarks, Jaishankar reflected on the longstanding partnership:
“This year marks the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic ties—an important milestone underscoring our shared civilizational links and enduring friendship. The guidance from Prime Minister Modi and President Masoud Pezeshkian during their meetings in Kazan (October 2024) and phone call on April 26, 2025, is central to our forward path.”
During his visit, Minister Araghchi also met with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. A statement from the President’s Secretariat on X read:
“Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Abbas Araghchi, called on President Droupadi Murmu. The President welcomed the Minister on this special occasion marking 75 years of India-Iran diplomatic ties.”
Araghchi also held strategic discussions with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on regional security and bilateral collaboration.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the significance of the visit, stating that Iran remains a key regional partner and the JCM has laid a strong foundation for future cooperation.