Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday, August 31, 2026, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, as New Delhi and Tehran reviewed bilateral relations amid continuing tensions in West Asia.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the broader India-Iran relationship along with recent developments in the West Asia conflict. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s position that disputes in the region should be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy, while stressing the importance of continued international efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability.
Economic cooperation was also an important part of the discussions. Modi said India wants to strengthen its long-standing relationship with Iran and expand and diversify the bilateral trade basket in the coming period. The focus on wider trade engagement comes as both countries continue to explore opportunities to deepen economic cooperation.
The regional security situation remained a key concern during the talks. India called for freedom of navigation and commerce to be protected and emphasised that civilians, civilian infrastructure, commercial shipping and seafarers must not be targeted. The position reflects New Delhi’s concern over the potential impact of regional instability on maritime movement, trade and wider economic security.
India also underlined its readiness to work closely with Iran through multilateral platforms, including the SCO and BRICS. Prime Minister Modi conveyed that he looked forward to welcoming President Pezeshkian to India for the upcoming BRICS Summit, providing another opportunity for the two countries to discuss regional and global issues.
The meeting took place during the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek, which is being held from August 31 to September 1, 2026. The summit marks the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and brings together leaders to discuss security, connectivity, economic cooperation and major regional and international developments. India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017.
The Modi-Pezeshkian meeting highlights India’s continued engagement with Iran at a time when developments in West Asia have significant implications for regional stability, maritime security and international commerce.