New Delhi, Jan 8 (UNI) Amid heightened tension in the Iran-US relationship, Iranian envoy in India Ali Chegeni on Wednesday described India as a 'good friend' and maintained that it will welcome any Indian initiative that can help peace in the world.
"India is a good friend for us......We are not for war, we are looking for peace and prosperity for everybody in this region," Mr Chegeni said after a condolence meeting for Iranian commander Maj General Qassem Solemani at the embassy.
"We welcome any Indian initiative that can help peace and prosperity," he said.
The remarks came within hours, Iran launched missile strikes against two US military bases in Iraq killing reportedly at least 80 US soldiers.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif also said in a tweet: "We do not seek escalation or war, but will defend ourselves against any aggression".
India has last week called for restraint.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also has held telephonic talks with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and shared India's 'deep concerns' over the escalation of tensions.
".....Noted that developments have taken a very serious turn. India remains deeply concerned about the levels of tension. We agreed to remain in touch," Dr Jaishankar had tweeted after his conversaion with Iranian Foreign Minister.
Dr Jaishankar has also held tele talks with his counterparts from UAE, Qatar and Jordan.
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