Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani emphasized the potential for enhancing defense and military collaboration with India to bolster regional security and stability. During a meeting with Indian Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane in Astana, Kazakhstan, on Friday, Ashtiani highlighted the strategic positioning of both nations and stressed the importance of leveraging their cooperation to promote peace in West Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

The discussions, held on the sidelines of the 21st session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defense Ministers, focused on various areas of potential cooperation, including joint efforts to combat the resurgence of terrorist groups like Daesh. Ashtiani urged increased dialogue between Tehran and New Delhi regarding developments in Afghanistan to mitigate security challenges.

Expressing condolences for the loss of Iranian military advisors in Syria, Aramane underscored the significance of enhancing security and peace in the region. He advocated for expanded bilateral cooperation in maritime activities, participation in naval exercises, defense research, education, and student exchanges.

In a separate meeting with Belarusian Defense Minister Lieutenant General Viktor Khrenin, Ashtiani highlighted the shared positions of Iran and Belarus on key regional and global issues. They condemned Israel's aggressive actions, particularly its airstrikes on Iran's diplomatic facilities in Syria, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and condemning such violations. Khrenin praised Iran's measured response to Israeli aggression, which prevented further escalation of conflicts.