After the meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov gave a big statement in New Delhi. He said that India can play a long-term mediation role in reducing the ongoing tension between America and Iran. Praising India’s diplomatic experience, global credibility and its growing influence in West Asia, Lavrov said that India can play an important role in regional peace.

Pakistan is immediately helping in talks
Lavrov said that currently Pakistan is helping in starting immediate talks between America and Iran, so that the current crisis can be handled. However, he indicated that India could be a more reliable and capable option for a long-term solution and permanent dialogue. He said, ‘If there is a need for long-term mediation between Iran and its Arab neighbours, India can play this role. India has vast diplomatic experience.

Why is India’s role considered important?
The Russian Foreign Minister said that India is one of the largest energy consumer countries in the world and has great dependence on oil supplies from West Asia. In such a situation, it is very important for India to maintain stability in the region. Lavrov said that being the BRICS chairperson, India can bring countries like Iran and UAE to the negotiating table, so that any major conflict can be prevented. He specifically mentioned the Strait of Hormuz, where increasing tensions could affect global oil supplies.

Not BRICS, but member countries can play a role
Lavrov clearly said that BRICS as an organization will not become a formal mediator, but its member countries can help in establishing peace at the individual level. He said, ‘The most important thing is to end the tension. BRICS should not become a mediator organization, but its member countries can help in dialogue and restoration of peace.

Accused America and Israel
Without naming any country, the Russian Foreign Minister alleged that some forces are trying to increase enmity between Iran and Arab countries. He said that America and Israel have a role behind the aggressive attitude against Iran. Lavrov said, ‘It is important to understand the root of every conflict. The provocative action of America and Israel is a big reason here.

PM Modi’s visit to Russia also confirmed
Lavrov also told that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Russia for the BRICS summit this year. He said that preparations for this high level meeting have started. Describing India-Russia relations as strong, he said that cooperation in energy, trade and financial transactions between the two countries is continuously increasing.

Distance from dollar, emphasis on trade in national currencies
The Russian Foreign Minister said that India and Russia are now reducing dependence on the dollar and promoting trade in national currencies. He said that both the countries are moving towards such a financial system where the dominance of any one currency in global institutions is less.

Discussion again on India’s ‘peace ambassador’ image
After Lavrov’s statement, the discussion on India’s traditional diplomatic role has again intensified. India has already played an important role in mediation and peace efforts in the Korean War, Suez Crisis, Iran-Iraq War and UN peacekeeping missions. In recent years, India has been presenting itself under the policy of ‘Vishwa Bandhu’ as a country that supports dialogue and peaceful resolution.