Iran has expressed readiness to deepen cooperation with India on counterterrorism and addressing regional instability, underlining shared concerns over extremist violence and security challenges. Mohammad Fathali, Iran&rsquo;s newly appointed ambassador to India, said there is significant scope for the two countries to work together in combating terrorism while fully respecting each other&rsquo;s independent policies and national interests.
Highlighting both countries&rsquo; experiences, Fathali said terrorism remains a common challenge for India and Iran. Referring to India&rsquo;s recent counterterror operations and Iran&rsquo;s own long-standing struggle against extremist violence, he noted that Tehran has paid a heavy price in confronting terrorism, losing several senior commanders and soldiers over the years. He added that Iran has developed substantial expertise in counterterrorism and is prepared to share its experience with friendly nations, including India.
Beyond security cooperation, the ambassador said his tenure would focus on building upon existing bilateral engagement while opening new avenues of collaboration. He identified emerging technologies, renewable energy, academic and scientific partnerships, and cultural diplomacy as priority areas for future cooperation. Strengthening political dialogue, expanding economic and cultural ties, and enhancing private sector engagement between the two countries will also remain key objectives, he said.
Fathali acknowledged that bilateral cooperation faces several challenges, including unilateral sanctions, banking restrictions, limited awareness among private sector players, and logistical constraints. However, he expressed confidence that these obstacles can be addressed through sustainable financial mechanisms, simplified trade procedures, and stronger direct engagement between business communities in both countries.
On trade ties, the ambassador noted that India-Iran commerce has declined sharply in recent years due to international sanctions. Bilateral trade stood at around USD 2.3 billion in 2024, with Indian exports accounting for USD 1.25 billion and imports from Iran at USD 1.06 billion. This represents a steep fall from peak levels recorded in 2018&ndash;19, when trade was driven largely by crude oil imports. India halted crude oil purchases from Iran in 2019 following the end of sanction waivers.
Fathali also underscored the strategic importance of the Chabahar Port project, describing it as a cornerstone of regional connectivity. He said the port provides India with access to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the International North-South Transport Corridor, while helping reduce transit time and costs. According to him, this connectivity framework has the potential to strengthen regional supply chains and enhance trade resilience across participating countries.
Overall, the ambassador said Iran sees India as a key partner in promoting regional stability, economic cooperation, and connectivity, and remains committed to advancing bilateral ties across multiple sectors.

President Droupadi Murmu accepts credentials from Ambassador of Iran Mohammad Fathali

Iran’s envoy signals expanded cooperation with India on terrorism, trade and regional stab

Iran seeks deeper counterterror ties with India

Iran’s envoy signals expanded cooperation with India on terrorism, trade and regional stab

December 31, 2025 | 22:47 IST