New Delhi: The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi celebrated its Army Day. Hosted by the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to India Dr Iraj Elahi and Military Attache Col Hasan Momeni, Lt General RS Raman DG MI India was the Chief Guest.
In his message of cooperation, emphasizing peace & friendship Ambassador Dr Elahi said, ‘The military doctrine of the Islamic Republic of Iran is defensive in nature and based on active deterrence. The Islamic Republic of Iran has proven that it does not seek war.’
He emphasized that the defense relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of India are progressing within the framework of the two countries' comprehensive and inclusive relations. The regular visits of naval fleets from both countries to each other’s ports are examples of this growing cooperation.
Conveying best wishes of CDS of India, Chief Guest DG MI Lt General Raman said, ‘We look forward to enhancing defense cooperation between the two armies.’
India and Iran maintain a comprehensive defense partnership, focusing on naval cooperation, joint exercises, military training, and professional exchanges. Both nations are expanding military collaboration to new domains, emphasizing maritime security and counter-terrorism. Recent high-level meetings underscore intentions to deepen cooperation, despite external pressures and regional complexities.
Hailing India Iran relations, Iran’s Defense Cooperation Military Attache Col Momeni informed that Iran and India, as two great powers in West and South Asia, have had growing cooperation in the military and defense fields, and the expansion of military cooperation in the future can include common interests and the interests of other countries as well.
Significance of IR of Iran’s Army DayIran's Army Day, celebrated on April 18th, honors the strength and dedication of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s military forces. Back in Iran, marked by military parades and speeches, the event showcases Iran’s defense capabilities and reaffirms national unity. It also serves as a platform for the government to send political messages, particularly regarding regional security and foreign policy. Army Day highlights both historical sacrifices and the contemporary strategic importance of Iran’s armed forces in maintaining national and regional stability.
Past few yearsOver the past few years, India-Iran relations have seen a mix of cooperation and challenges. Both nations have maintained strong cultural and historical ties, with India investing in Iran’s Chabahar Port to enhance regional connectivity. However, U.S. sanctions on Iran have affected India's oil imports and economic engagement. Despite this, India continues diplomatic efforts to balance strategic interests with global obligations.
Geopolitically India and Iran converge on regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan, counterterrorism, and combating extremism. Both oppose unilateralism and support a multipolar world. Iran’s location and India’s connectivity goals align via the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), enhancing trade links to Central Asia, fostering strategic cooperation beyond bilateral frameworks.
