New Delhi, May 13: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, referred to India as a ‘friend country’ on Wednesday. He stated that Tehran and New Delhi are actively working to ensure safe passage for more Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amidst ongoing regional tensions.
During a conversation with select journalists in New Delhi, Gharibabadi mentioned, “India is a friend country for us. We have granted permission to 11 vessels so far, and we are working on allowing more. This facility has not been extended to any other country, and not all vessels will receive permission. We welcome India’s assistance.”
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 11 Indian ships have successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while 13 vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf, awaiting further approval.
The Iranian minister, who plays a crucial role in ongoing negotiations with the United States, revealed that new regulations are being established for vessels transiting through this strategic waterway. Under these new rules, Iran plans to impose certain fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which will be determined based on various criteria.
However, he clearly stated that if the U.S. wishes for Iran to fully open the Strait of Hormuz, it must lift the sanctions imposed on Iran, return the country’s frozen assets, and be prepared for serious discussions on all issues, including the nuclear program.
Gharibabadi noted that recent Iran-U.S. talks focused on three main issues: Iran’s commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, the management of its existing uranium stockpile, and the matter of uranium enrichment.
The U.S. claims that Iran is nearing the capability to produce weapons-grade uranium, having already enriched uranium up to 60%.
Gharibabadi told reporters in New Delhi, “Iran was ready to discuss every issue, but the conversations must be conducted properly. The U.S. is avoiding negotiations and only wants to impose its conditions.”
Earlier in the day, Secretary (West) Sibi George met with Gharibabadi and the Iranian delegation. The discussions covered bilateral and regional issues, along with recent developments in the region.
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fatehali, and other officials were also present at the meeting. Following the discussions, the Ministry of External Affairs posted on the social media platform ‘X’, stating, “Secretary (West) Sibi George welcomed Dr. Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs. The talks addressed bilateral and regional issues along with recent developments.”
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