Iran’s exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi praises India ties, says a “new chapter” can begin with a democratic Iran

• What happened: Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled crown prince, praised India–Iran relations and discussed future cooperation at a news conference.
• Why it matters now: His remarks come amid ongoing protests in Iran and renewed global attention on the country’s political future.
• What changes for people: A democratic Iran, he said, would seek closer ties with India, especially in tech and clean energy.
• Who is affected: The comments are relevant to Indian diplomacy, Iranian diaspora, and nations watching Iran’s political trajectory.

Iran’s exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi has highlighted cultural, historical and strategic bonds between India and Iran, calling India a natural partner for a future democratic Iran and suggesting that bilateral ties could enter a new era once political change takes place in Tehran.

Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, Pahlavi reflected on decades of diplomatic engagement and praised India’s technological and cultural strengths. His remarks coincide with rising anti-government demonstrations inside Iran against the clerical establishment.

“Relationship goes back decades”

Pahlavi recalled India’s ties with pre-1979 Iran, noting that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had visited Iran when he was a child. He described the India–Iran relationship as deep, cultural and historical, adding that cooperation continued even in modern times.

“In modern history, we have had a very good relationship,” he said, noting that a future democratic Iran would naturally align with nations that respect sovereignty, freedom and shared values.

India seen as a technology leader

Pahlavi praised India’s growth in technology, renewable energy and IT, saying the country was “one of the leading nations” in these fields. He suggested that collaboration between Indian and Iranian experts could expand in the future, especially in sectors that support economic modernisation.

He added that India’s cultural heritage and democratic structure make it a strong partner for a post-theocratic Iran.

“A new chapter once we are freed”

Linking bilateral ties to Iran’s internal struggle, Pahlavi said that meaningful cooperation could flourish only after political change.
“Hopefully, once we are freed, we can start a new chapter,” he said, expressing hope that Iran would move away from its clerical system.

Background: Who is Reza Pahlavi?

Pahlavi is the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s last shah, who was toppled during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. He has lived in exile since then and has become a prominent voice urging Iranians and the diaspora to push for democratic reforms.

Protests continue despite crackdowns

Iran has been witnessing widespread demonstrations for over two weeks. What began as frustration over economic hardship has evolved into calls for systemic political change. The protests have spread across multiple cities despite heavy security presence, internet curbs, and mass arrests.

International observers are closely watching the situation as questions grow about the stability of Iran’s current political structure.