Amid trade wars, Iran seeks stronger ties with New Delhi
As the United States escalates economic pressure on India with a sweeping 50 per cent tariff on select goods — reportedly in response to India's ongoing energy trade with Russia — Iran has emerged as an unexpected yet familiar voice of support. Seeking to deepen its bilateral partnership, Tehran is extending an open hand to New Delhi, urging the resumption of oil trade and expanded cooperation across strategic sectors.
In an exclusive interview to The Pioneer, Iranian Ambassador to India, Dr Iraj Elahi, called on India to re-evaluate its energy alignment and look toward trusted regional partners. "India should seriously consider restarting energy trade with Iran," Dr Elahi said. "We are not just an old partner, but a tested and reliable neighbour." The timing of Iran's overture is significant. As Western sanctions continue to isolate key players across the global south, Iran is positioning itself as both a resilient economy and a willing partner in global-south cooperation.
Amid tariff wars, Iran seeks stronger ties with New Delhi.
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Edited excerpts follow:
Q: The United States recently imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods due to India's continued energy ties with Russia. How does Iran view this situation?
Dr Iraj Elahi: The US has a long history of weaponising the global economy to pressure independent countries. This recent move against India is just another example. Iran has been a primary target of such illegal sanctions, but we have never bowed down. India's strong reaction shows the growing global resistance to these unjustified coercive measures.
Q: Given these developments, do you think it's time for India to re-engage with Iran on energy trade?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Yes, this is the right time. Iran is a reliable and time-tested partner. We are fully prepared to resume oil exports to India. Iranian oil can offer affordable and stable energy, and *Indian goods will also find an interesting market in Iran.* Reviving this trade would be a win-win for both nations.
Q: Beyond oil and energy, are there other sectors where Iran seeks deeper cooperation with India?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Absoutely. Iran is a leading car manufacturer in West Asia. We are keen to initiate trade in automobiles and spare parts with Indian companies-both imports and exports. This sector offers strong potential for joint manufacturing, technology transfer, and distribution.
Q: How does Iran plan to strengthen ties with India amid ongoing Western sanctions?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Iran and India both value strategic autonomy. Despite sanctions, we have expanded our partnerships with countries like China. With India, the potential is even greater. We're not looking for short-term gains-we want a long-term economic relationship built on mutual trust and independence.
Q: Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently criticized Indian companies for violating oil sanctions. How do you view this?
Dr Iraj Elahi: It's not surprising. The U.S. often uses such statements to intimidate nations. But the world is evolving. Sanctions are becoming less effective as more countries stand up for sovereignty. The Global South must unite against these pressures. The U.S. cannot engage in economic warfare with the entire world forever-especially given its own domestic challenges.
Q: Can platforms like BRICS help Iran and India navigate these economic pressures?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Yes, certainly. BRICS is a strong multilateral forum where India and Iran can collaborate. One key strategy is to use local currencies in bilateral trade. This reduces dependency on the U.S. dollar and builds resilience. The 21st century belongs to Asia, and India and Iran can play a leading role.
Q: What opportunities do you see for Indian private sector companies in Iran?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Indian companies have vast potential in energy, automotive, and infrastructure. We are already supplying oil to China despite sanctions and are ready to do the same with India. Our automotive sector is open for collaboration-manufacturing, spare parts, joint ventures. There is a real opportunity to build resilient supply chains together.
Q: What is your final message to Indian Government and business leaders?
Dr Iraj Elahi: Iran is open and ready to deepen cooperation with India-not only in energy but in manufacturing, technology, and strategic trade. We believe in a strong, independent Global South. Let's work together to create a more balanced economic order-one that's not dominated by any single power. Iran will always be a reliable partner for India.
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As India recalibrates its foreign and trade policy in the face of rising global protectionism, Iran's overtures signal a deeper alignment among countries seeking to chart an independent course. With geopolitical currents shifting rapidly, this rekindled Iran-India partnership-if realized-could mark a significant chapter in the broader story of South-South cooperation and economic sovereignty.
