Vishwesh Negi steps up as India's ambassador to Iran
Senior diplomat Vishwesh Negi will serve as India's next Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran, according to an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. A 2002-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, Negi currently works as a Joint Secretary inside the ministry in New Delhi. He plans to relocate to Tehran soon to assume his new diplomatic duties. His assignment comes at a delicate time for regional stability and international trade. Tensions across West Asia continue to impact commercial shipping lanes and seafarers around the Strait of Hormuz. Historically, the Strait of Hormuz serves as a choke point where roughly a fifth of global petroleum passes, making stability in these waters vital for Indian energy security.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently spoke directly with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. During their phone call, Jaishankar asked that commercial vessels and maritime workers remain safe from any targeted aggression. He emphasised India's firm position against commercial shipping attacks by any faction and backed peaceful negotiation to resolve conflict. Iran shared its official perspective regarding ongoing regional developments during the exchange. Parallel diplomatic efforts are moving forward elsewhere in the region. US President Donald Trump announced that mediated talks with Tehran begin on Monday. Meanwhile, Iranian state media confirmed discussions with Oman regarding maritime safety rules are in their final stage. Negi will guide India's diplomatic position in Tehran as these multi-nation talks unfold.
With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI