Modi, Pezeshkian walk hand-in-hand at BRICS

The Cliff News | 12 September 2026

A potent visual from the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi on Friday saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi walking hand-in-hand with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, an image that encapsulated India's complex geopolitical stance.

The photograph, taken at the Bharat Mandapam venue, depicted Prime Minister Modi escorting President Pezeshkian into the forum. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa were seen walking alongside them, underscoring a moment of solidarity among leaders of the expanded BRICS grouping.

India's Central Diplomatic Role

The striking image served as a powerful symbol of New Delhi's unique position in a fractured global order. India is strategically placed at the center, actively engaging with nations like Iran and Russia while maintaining open channels for dialogue and cooperation with a diverse range of global partners.

This visual narrative also highlighted a palpable sense of solidarity among the leaders present. Their collective presence and discussions aimed to foster deeper cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, innovation, and global development, within the framework of the growing BRICS bloc.

Symbolism of Hand-in-Hand Walk

The evident warmth in the photograph, with both leaders smiling as they walked hand-in-hand, was interpreted as a reflection of the depth and warmth in India-Iran bilateral ties. This gesture transcended mere protocol, suggesting a personal rapport and a shared vision.

President Pezeshkian's visit marked his first to India as President. It occurred amidst the ongoing protracted conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, a complex regional scenario where Washington and New Delhi maintain strategic partnership. This juxtaposition underscored the nuanced diplomatic tightrope India walks.

Navigating Global Crises with Pragmatism

The image powerfully captured India's pragmatic and strategic diplomatic positioning amidst simultaneous global crises, including the war in Ukraine and the West Asian tensions. In this turbulent international landscape, India has consistently prioritized keeping its communication channels open with key players like Iran and Russia.

This approach allows India to maintain a delicate balance while upholding its strategic partnerships with the United States and other Western nations. The ability to engage with multiple stakeholders, even those with conflicting interests, is a hallmark of India's current foreign policy strategy.

Bilateral Talks and Regional Peace

Later on Friday, Prime Minister Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with President Pezeshkian. This meeting, the second between the two leaders in less than two weeks, focused on strengthening India-Iran relations, with the volatile situation in West Asia taking center stage during their deliberations.

India reiterated its firm stance on "dialogue and diplomacy" as the most effective pathway towards a lasting solution for the Middle East crisis. Furthermore, India highlighted the critical importance of energy security and advocated for the unimpeded and safe passage of vessels carrying vital supplies, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability and economic well-being.

Prime Minister's Remarks on the Visit

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of President Pezeshkian's visit, describing it as "more special because it is his first visit" to India. His remarks conveyed a positive sentiment about the trajectory of bilateral relations.

“We talked about the India-Iran friendship. We believe that we should move forward with a long-term and win-win strategy,” Prime Minister Modi stated on social media. He further added, “The prevailing situation in the region was also discussed. India remains steadfast in its commitment to the pursuit of enduring peace.”