Amid crisis, Iran envoy says will welcome Indian peace initiative

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, January 8

Iran’s Ambassador Ali Chegeni today advocated a greater role for India in the regional peace effort following the US-Iran crisis.

“India is a part of the region. It should be a part of de-escalation. We are welcoming any initiative from our good friends from India,” Ambassador Ali Chegeni told media in New Delhi on the sidelines of a cultural event organised by Iran.

The US-Iran crisis started after the United States killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad on Friday using a missile. In retaliation, Iran attacked the Iraq-based US military stations this morning.

Chegeni said his nation was not looking for a war. “We don’t want any tension/escalation in this region,” he added.

He was categorical that whatever Iran has done—the missiles attacks last night—is a part of our response. “Retaliation was our right. We are not looking for war or escalation,” he said.

Millions of people participated in the funeral of General Qassem Soleimani, Ali Chegeni added.

Allying fears about effects of the US-Iran crisis on the trade, Chegeni assured India that Chabahar Port is fine and operative. “Chabahar Port is a symbol of very good friendship between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Commonwealth of Independent States, Europe, the whole Persian Gulf. It does not belong only to Iran and India. Chabahar will go on, don’t worry about it,” he said.

Earlier, the Iranian Ministry of Culture organised the 2nd regional book award at the India International centre (IIC).

Cultural councillor of Iran Dr Ali Rabbani said Iran and India have very important long-standing cultural heritage.

President of the IIC NN Vohra asked the Iran culture centre to put up an art exhibition in New Delhi so that people can see art of heritage. He greeted the Iranian culture centre and Iran government.