Prime Minister Narendra Modi (ANI photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, during a joint statement with his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney, reflected on the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, also referred to as West Asia. He voiced concern over the constantly evolving situation in the region following the massive military action by the United States and Israel against Iran, which led to the killing of its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.Speaking after talks with Carney, PM Modi said, “Situation in West Asia is a matter of grave concern for us.”He also stated that India would continue to work with countries in the region to ensure the safety of its citizens. “We will keep working with countries in West Asia to ensure safety of Indians there,” he said.
PM Modi and the Canadian leadership also highlighted that terrorism and radicalisation remain “shared and serious challenges” not only for India and Canada but for all humanity.“India supports resolution of all conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy,” PM Modi said while referring to situation in West Asia.The joint remarks by the leaders of the two major democracies came after Canada’s neighbour, the United States, carried out a joint military operation with Israel against Iran, striking multiple locations, including the “heart of Tehran”. The strikes killed several top leaders of the Tehran regime and brought an end to Ali Khamenei’s decades-long rule in Iran.