Former High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, highlighted India’s active diplomatic involvement with all parties amidst the ongoing Iran-US-Israel tensions. She emphasized India’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and diplomacy. Sikri mentioned that India is engaging in discussions with various countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, France, and Oman to foster opinions that could lead to resolving hostilities through dialogue and diplomacy.
Discussing regional stability, Sikri underscored the significance of coexistence and understanding, especially in the Gulf region. She emphasized the importance of peaceful cohabitation and mutual respect for the well-being of all, pointing out Iran’s substantial population and its contributions to defense, development, and science programs that it is willing to share with other nations.
Sikri also highlighted India’s proactive approach in interacting with the Iranian leadership. She noted the conversations between Prime Minister Modi and President Masoud Pezeshkian as a positive step towards peace and dialogue amidst the conflict. Stressing the need for cessation of hostilities, Sikri mentioned the efforts of the Indian Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister in engaging with Iranian leaders to promote peace and diplomacy.
Addressing domestic matters, Sikri commented on the Indian socio-cultural fabric and the significance of minorities. She referenced the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and emphasized the importance of unity and coexistence, stating that minorities are an integral part of the Indian ethos and civilization. Sikri criticized the recent report on religious freedom by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), labeling it as biased and illogical. She defended institutions like the R&AW and the RSS, highlighting their social contributions.
