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## India, Iran Explore New Frontiers in Traditional Medicine Cooperation

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/india-iran-explore-new-frontiers-in-traditional-medicine-cooperation/
- Published: 2026-09-24T23:33:59+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

India and Iran explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in traditional medicine,
research and knowledge exchange as the Embassy of India in Tehran marked Ayurveda
Day 2026 with a press briefing, interactive session and lecture series on Wednesday.

The event, held at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy of India,
brought together officials from Iran’s Ministry of Health and Medical Education,
members of Tehran’s diplomatic corps, Ayurveda practitioners and Iranian media representatives.

Indian Ambassador Vishvesh Negi, Italian Ambassador Paola Amadei and Arman Zargaran,
International Affairs Adviser at Center for Iranian and Complementary Medicine, 
Ministry of Health and Medical Education, were the main speakers.

The gathering highlighted the long-standing cultural links between Iran and India
and examined how traditional medicine could provide another avenue for scientific,
educational and institutional cooperation between the two countries.

## Ayurveda and the pursuit of preventive health

In his opening remarks, Negi said World Ayurveda Day is observed annually to promote
awareness of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine centered on natural 
healing, prevention and holistic well-being.

He noted that the Government of India initiated the observance in 2016 and that 
2026 marks the 11th Ayurveda Day, held under the theme “Ayurveda for a Healthier
Tomorrow.”

Explaining the origins of the term, Negi said Ayurveda combines the Sanskrit words
Ayur, meaning life, and Veda, meaning knowledge. He described it not only as a system
for treating disease but also as an approach to maintaining balance among the body,
mind and spirit.

“A well-lived day is itself a form of medicine,” he said, emphasizing prevention,
daily routines, digestion and sleep as elements that Ayurveda seeks to integrate
into everyday life.

Negi stressed that the future development of Ayurveda would require stronger links
between traditional knowledge and modern research, quality standards and international
healthcare frameworks.

He said the challenge was not simply to expand Ayurveda internationally, but to 
establish the scientific evidence, institutional structures and professional standards
needed to support its responsible global development.

## India seeks global standards for Ayurveda

According to Negi, India’s Ayurveda sector has undergone substantial economic expansion
over the past decade. He cited figures showing that the Ayurveda economy grew from
$2.85 billion in 2014 to $43.4 billion in 2023.

He also pointed to a Strategic Roadmap for Making Ayurveda Global, released by the
Indian government in July 2026, as an effort to establish the infrastructure needed
for the sector’s international expansion.

The roadmap focuses on areas including quality standards, research, professional
training, infrastructure, product consistency and regulatory frameworks that can
be understood and recognized internationally, he said.

Negi also referred to India’s engagement with the World Health Organization on traditional,
complementary and integrative medicine, including the second WHO Global Summit on
Traditional Medicine, held in New Delhi in December 2025.

The summit addressed issues including scientific evidence, integration into health
systems, regulation, biodiversity, indigenous knowledge, intellectual property and
innovation, according to the Indian envoy.

## Iran, India build on traditional medicine ties

The ambassador highlighted existing institutional cooperation between India and 
Iran, noting that the two countries have signed a memorandum of understanding between
India’s Ministry of AYUSH and Iran’s Ministry of Health and Medical Education concerning
traditional medicine.

He also referred to an agreement reached at the 16th BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting
in Chandigarh in July 2026 to expand cooperation in traditional medicine alongside
broader pharmaceutical cooperation.

Zargaran provided a detailed account of the development of Iran-India cooperation
in the field over the past decade.

He said Iran and India have maintained extensive historical and cultural relations
and that similarities between Persian and Indian terminology and medical traditions
reflect centuries of interaction.

He noted that the first ministerial-level memorandum of understanding on traditional
medicine between Iran and India was signed in 2018. Further agreements have since
been concluded at institutional and academic levels, including a 2024 agreement 
involving India’s Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine and the School 
of Iranian Medicine at Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

Zargaran said the two countries have also collaborated on scientific programs, university
projects, international health initiatives and mutual academic visits.

## BRICS cooperation highlighted

Among the recent areas of cooperation, Zargaran cited efforts by Iran and India 
to establish an expert group on traditional medicine within the BRICS framework.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/4017-1.jpg)

He said cooperation between Iranian and Indian officials helped overcome technical
and procedural challenges surrounding the proposed expert group and contributed 
to approval of its terms of reference.

He also referred to Iran’s participation in the WHO Global Summit on Traditional
Medicine in New Delhi in December 2025 and to continuing scientific exchanges between
Iranian and Indian institutions.

Zargaran said traditional medicine could serve as an important area of cooperation
because of the historical connections between the two countries’ medical traditions.

He noted that Iranian medicine was transmitted to the Indian subcontinent through
centuries of migration and intellectual exchange and subsequently contributed to
the development of Unani medicine in India.

Zargaran said Iranian medicine is the principal traditional medical system formally
regulated and integrated into Iran’s health system, while other complementary approaches,
including Chinese medicine, acupuncture, naturopathy and homeopathy, are also practiced
in the country through relevant professional structures.

He outlined Iran’s institutional framework for Persian and complementary medicine,
including structures within the Ministry of Health and the country’s pharmaceutical
regulatory system.

He also pointed to the incorporation of Persian medicine into higher education. 
According to the Iranian official, academic programs in Iranian medicine and traditional
pharmacy have been offered for more than 15 years, while traditional medicine is
also represented in the curricula of medicine, pharmacy and other medical fields.

Specialized traditional medicine clinics operate across the country, he said, while
universities conduct research and educational programs in the field.

Zargaran argued that the historical foundations shared by Iranian and Indian medical
traditions provide a basis for expanding cooperation in research, education, professional
exchanges and international initiatives.

“Traditional medicine,” he said, can provide an opportunity for the two countries
to strengthen their friendship and cooperation in health and wellness.

## Italy’s ambassador shares personal Ayurveda experience

Italy’s Ambassador to Iran, Paola Amadei, also addressed the gathering, describing
her longstanding interest in Indian culture and her personal experience with Ayurveda.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/4017-2-1024x558.jpg)

Amadei said her interest in India began nearly 25 years ago through her appreciation
of Indian music, classical dance, culture and traditions. During an early visit 
to Kerala, she was introduced to Ayurveda, including through a stay at an Ayurvedic
clinic.

She said subsequent visits to India provided opportunities to experience Ayurvedic
treatments, dietary practices, yoga and other aspects of the tradition.

While stressing that she was not a medical professional and therefore was not speaking
from a scientific perspective, Amadei described Ayurveda as an approach that emphasizes
a connection between the individual, the body and nature.

She also drew parallels between Indian and Italian traditions involving the therapeutic
use of plants and herbs and respect for nature.

For Amadei, her personal experience with Ayurveda underscored the importance of 
setting aside time for personal well-being amid modern, fast-paced lifestyles.

## Cultural exchanges as a bridge

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Negi said the session had expanded his own understanding
of Ayurveda and highlighted the knowledge and experience of Iranian practitioners
and participants.

He described Ayurveda and other indigenous medical traditions as examples of the
historical exchange of knowledge between India and Iran.

Negi said the event demonstrated that the two countries’ relationship extends beyond
government-to-government ties and includes centuries of people-to-people and cultural
exchanges.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/4017-3-1024x645.jpg)

He encouraged further cultural and professional interactions involving the Embassy
of India, Iranian practitioners and institutions, saying there remained “much more”
to explore in the historical relationship between the two countries.

The event concluded with an emphasis on expanding dialogue and practical cooperation
in traditional medicine, including research, education, institutional exchanges 
and participation in international health initiatives.

The discussions underscored how the shared history of Persian and Indian medical
traditions is increasingly being complemented by contemporary efforts to establish
formal frameworks for scientific cooperation, regulation and knowledge exchange.

## Pakistan Embassy Hosts Seerat Conference in Tehran

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/pakistan-embassy-hosts-seerat-conference-in-tehran/
- Published: 2026-09-16T23:14:48+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Tehran has hosted a Seerat Conference
and Naatia Mushaira at Pakistan House, bringing together Islamic scholars, academics,
poets and other distinguished guests to discuss the life and teachings of Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH).

Addressing the gathering, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, highlighted
the universal relevance of the Prophet’s Seerat, particularly its emphasis on kindness,
compassion, justice and mutual respect.

Siddiqui said the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) succeeded in building a peaceful and cohesive
community in Medina despite its social diversity, adding that these values remain
relevant for younger generations seeking to build harmonious societies.

Speakers at the event included Gholamali Haddad-Adel, head of Iran’s Academy of 
Persian Language and Literature; Ali Akbar Salehi, former Iranian foreign minister
and head of the Iranology Foundation; Brig. Gen. Mohammad Akraminia, spokesperson
for the Iranian Army; and Islamic scholar Maulana Nusrat Bokhari.

The speakers discussed different aspects of the Prophet’s life and teachings and
their relevance to contemporary challenges.

The program also featured Naat recitations and poetry in Urdu and Persian in praise
of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/4006-1-1024x683.jpg)

A calligraphy exhibition featuring works by renowned Pakistani calligraphers was
also inaugurated during the event. The exhibition highlighted the shared spiritual
and cultural traditions of Pakistan and Iran and was welcomed by participants.

## World Religious Leaders to Convene in Astana for 24th Congress Secretariat Meeting

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/world-religious-leaders-to-convene-in-astana-for-24th-congress-secretariat-meeting/
- Published: 2026-09-10T17:42:55+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

Leaders and representatives of the world’s major religions will gather in Astana
on Oct. 7 for the 24th Meeting of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of 
World and Traditional Religions, organizers announced.

The meeting, set for the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, will bring together
figures from Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and Shinto,
alongside heads of international organizations, government officials and leading
experts from 20 countries.

Chief among the agenda items will be the consideration and adoption of two international
documents: “The Code of Ethics for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Religious
Sphere” and “The Role of Religions in Combating Climate Change.” Both documents 
were initiated by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the VIII Congress of
Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and later endorsed by participants.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/3993-1-1024x469.png)

The Charter of the Rights of the Incurable Child will also be presented as a separate
agenda item. The document calls for protecting children’s dignity, ensuring humane
treatment, and guaranteeing their right to necessary medical and psychological care—
including, upon request, support that accounts for a child’s religious and spiritual
needs.

Kazakhstani and international media wishing to cover the meeting must complete accreditation
by Sept. 30 by emailing communications@iciid.org. The event begins at 10 a.m. at
the Press Center, 57 Tauelsizdik Avenue, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.

## Astana to Host Kazakhstan-Vatican Colloquium on Child Protection

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/astana-to-host-kazakhstan-vatican-colloquium-on-child-protection/
- Published: 2026-09-10T17:34:14+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

The International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue will host the
second Joint Colloquium between Kazakhstan and the Holy See on Oct. 2-3, focusing
on the protection of vulnerable children, organizers announced.

The event, held at the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, brings together
the Holy See’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the Astana-based center.
It builds on talks that began in April 2024, when the head of the Secretariat of
the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions met Vatican officials
in Rome.

The colloquium will be co-chaired by the head of the Secretariat and Cardinal George
Jacob Koovakad, prefect of the Vatican’s interreligious dialogue office. Attendees
are expected to include government representatives from Kazakhstan and the Holy 
See, religious leaders, pediatric and bioethics specialists, theologians, and officials
from international organizations.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/3988-1.png)

Organizers said the program will address three themes: the ethical foundations of
child care and interfaith cooperation; protecting the rights and dignity of children
facing illness; and expanding medical, scientific and institutional partnerships.
Discussions will also examine the use of artificial intelligence in pediatrics and
the ethical guidelines that should govern it.

A central reference document for the talks will be the Charter of the Rights of 
the Incurable Child, which emphasizes human dignity, comprehensive care and family
support. Kazakh delegates plan to present the country’s “Zhusan” humanitarian operation
as a model for aiding children in crisis.

Media seeking to cover the colloquium must apply for accreditation by Sept. 20 by
emailing communications@iciid.org. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. on the first floor
of the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

## India’s Ambassador-Designate to Iran Presents Credentials to FM Araghchi

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/indias-ambassador-designate-to-iran-presents-credentials-to-fm-araghchi/
- Published: 2026-09-08T23:01:54+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

India’s ambassador-designate to Iran, Vishwesh Negi, met with Iranian Foreign Minister
Abbas Araghchi in Tehran and presented a copy of his credentials.

During the meeting, Negi reaffirmed India’s commitment to further strengthening 
ties between the two countries.

India and Iran have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, with cooperation
spanning trade, energy and connectivity projects, including India’s involvement 
in the development of Chabahar port.

## New Indian ambassador takes up post in Tehran

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/new-indian-ambassador-takes-up-post-in-tehran/
- Published: 2026-09-04T17:42:27+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

India’s new ambassador to Iran has formally begun his diplomatic mission in Tehran,
the Indian Embassy announced.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran said in a post on X that it welcomed Vishwesh Negi 
as the new ambassador-designate of India to Iran. As he takes charge in Tehran, 
Negi said he looks forward to further strengthening the longstanding India-Iran 
partnership and bonds of friendship between the two countries.

Negi succeeds Rudra Gaurav Shresth, who has completed his term as India’s envoy 
to Iran and left Tehran. Shresth is now serving as India’s ambassador to Turkey.

India and Iran formally established diplomatic relations in 1950, and their ties
today span energy trade, connectivity projects and cultural exchange. A centerpiece
of that relationship is Chabahar Port on Iran’s southeastern coast, which India 
and Iran agreed in May 2024 to develop under a 10-year contract, with the port providing
India direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

The two sides have reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation in multilateral
forums including the United Nations, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
during recent bilateral consultations.

##  PM: India Seeks to Expand, Diversify Trade With Iran

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/modi-india-seeks-to-expand-diversify-trade-with-iran/
- Published: 2026-08-31T16:06:40+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday that New Delhi wants to strengthen
its longstanding friendship with Iran and expand and diversify trade ties between
the two countries.

Modi made the remarks after meeting Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines
of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Bishkek.

“Met President Masoud Pezeshkian in Bishkek. Reiterated our commitment to strengthening
India’s long standing friendship with Iran across diverse sectors. We want to expand
and diversify our trade basket in the times to come,” Modi said in a post on X.

“We had a discussion on the prevailing situation in the region. India will continue
to support all efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace,” he added.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesman for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, described the
meeting as constructive and productive.

The two leaders reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations and discussed recent
developments in West Asia, Jaiswal said in a post on X.

He said Modi reiterated New Delhi’s longstanding position that all issues should
be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

Jaiswal added that Modi stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure peace 
and stability in the region and protect freedom of navigation and trade.

Pezeshkian met Modi Monday morning at the start of his visit to Kyrgyzstan, where
he is attending and addressing the SCO summit and the Shanghai Plus meeting.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the latest state of bilateral relations
and emphasized the need to strengthen and expand cooperation between Iran and India
in areas of mutual interest.

## Qurultay: A new engine for Kazakhstan’s renewal

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/qurultay-a-new-engine-for-kazakhstans-renewal/
- Published: 2026-08-28T15:28:05+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

The inauguration of Kazakhstan’s new unicameral Qurultay marks more than the opening
of another parliamentary session. It signals a significant stage in the country’s
political and economic transformation — one that puts institutional modernization,
national unity and practical development at the center of governance.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has framed the Qurultay as a historic instrument
for renewing Kazakhstan’s political system and strengthening the state’s capacity
to respond to the needs of its people. That ambition deserves serious attention,
particularly because the new parliament is emerging at a time when Kazakhstan is
pursuing broad infrastructure, industrial and social reforms.

## **From reform to results**

The most convincing measure of political reform is not rhetoric but its impact on
everyday life. In this regard, Tokayev’s emphasis on industrialization, infrastructure
and job creation gives the Qurultay a concrete national mission.

Kazakhstan is investing in new industrial production while attracting foreign capital,
creating permanent employment and expanding economic opportunities. At the same 
time, large-scale modernization of utilities, transport, energy and water infrastructure
can directly improve living standards, especially outside the country’s major urban
centers.

The image of Kazakhstan becoming a “vast construction site” is therefore more than
a description of physical development. It represents an effort to turn political
reform into tangible economic and social progress. A stronger legislative institution
can help ensure that these investments are properly evaluated, nationally coordinated
and directed toward projects that deliver long-term benefits.

## **A parliament closer to people**

The Qurultay’s greatest potential lies in its ability to become a stronger channel
between citizens and the state. According to Tokayev, more than 74% of eligible 
citizens participated in the election, while hundreds of international observers
followed the process.

High participation alone does not guarantee effective representation, but it creates
an important foundation for legitimacy. The challenge now is for deputies to convert
public expectations into practical policies.

Tokayev’s warning against “empty promises” and populist rhetoric is particularly
relevant. Kazakhstan needs a parliament capable of debating complex issues professionally,
scrutinizing government policies and presenting solutions rather than simply amplifying
political slogans.

The principle highlighted by the president — “Different views – one nation” — can
provide a useful framework. Political pluralism and national unity do not have to
be contradictory. A mature political system should allow disagreement while preserving
a shared commitment to the country’s stability and development.

## **The Qurultay’s regional importance**

The significance of the Qurultay extends beyond Kazakhstan’s borders. Kazakhstan
occupies a strategically important position between Europe and Asia and has become
an increasingly consequential participant in regional trade, energy, transport and
diplomatic initiatives.

A modern and effective system of governance can strengthen the country’s ability
to manage these opportunities. Infrastructure development, energy modernization 
and industrial expansion can enhance Kazakhstan’s role as a bridge between markets
and help generate wider economic benefits across Central Asia.

A more capable parliamentary institution can also support policies that promote 
predictable economic relations, cross-border cooperation and long-term investment.
In a region facing rapid geopolitical and economic change, stability itself is a
valuable strategic asset.

## **Tokayev’s leadership, national unity**

President Tokayev’s message has consistently placed national unity, political stability
and economic modernization at the center of Kazakhstan’s development strategy. His
remarks at the Qurultay’s inaugural session reinforce that approach.

At a time of global uncertainty and declining trust among major powers, Kazakhstan’s
ability to maintain a strong international standing is an important achievement.
Tokayev has emphasized that the country will continue defending its national interests
while pursuing peace, friendship and mutually beneficial partnerships.

This balanced approach serves Kazakhstan well. The country does not need confrontation
to assert its interests. Its growing international relevance can instead be built
on diplomacy, economic connectivity, responsible statecraft and cooperation with
multiple partners.

## **A Chance to Strengthen the State**

The Qurultay should ultimately be judged by what it delivers: better governance,
stronger institutions, more accountable decision-making and improved living standards.

Its establishment under the new constitutional framework offers Kazakhstan an opportunity
to bring political modernization closer to economic modernization. The two processes
are most effective when they reinforce each other.

The responsibility now rests with the 145 deputies of the first convocation. Their
task is not simply to occupy parliamentary seats, but to help build institutions
capable of serving a rapidly changing society.

Kazakhstan has entered an important new chapter. With determined leadership from
President Tokayev, a parliament focused on practical results and a population willing
to participate in the country’s future, the Qurultay has the potential to become
a powerful instrument for national renewal — and a source of greater prosperity 
and stability for Kazakhstan and the wider region.

## Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day celebrated in Tehran

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/pakistans-79th-independence-day-celebrated-in-tehran/
- Published: 2026-08-14T19:08:34+03:30
- Author: Farid Ghoreyshi

Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony at Pakistan
House in Tehran on Friday, bringing together members of the Pakistani community 
and officials to commemorate the country’s independence and highlight its ties with
Iran.

The Pakistani flag was hoisted to the national anthem during the ceremony, which
was attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora in Tehran.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/3899-1-1.jpeg)

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Imran Ahmed Siddiqui read messages from President 
Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif marking Independence
Day. In his remarks, Siddiqui congratulated members of the Pakistani community and
thanked them for taking part in the celebrations.

The ambassador underscored the Pakistani community’s contributions to Iran’s socioeconomic
development and its role in promoting relations between the two countries. He also
pointed to the determination of the governments of Pakistan and Iran to increase
bilateral trade to $10 billion, saying the Pakistani community has an important 
role as a stakeholder in achieving that goal.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/3899-2-1.jpeg)

The ceremony also featured a national song performed by children from the Pakistan
Embassy International School and College in Tehran. A collective prayer was offered
in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan’s independence, followed
by a cake-cutting ceremony.

** President Zardari: Independence carries responsibility for future generations**

In his Independence Day message, President Asif Ali Zardari extended greetings to
Pakistanis at home and abroad and paid tribute to the leaders and workers of the
Pakistan Movement, particularly Muhammad Ali Jinnah, as well as those who sacrificed
their homes, security and livelihoods for the creation of Pakistan.

Zardari said independence was not merely a historic achievement but a responsibility
for every generation. He called for strengthening Pakistan’s economy, expanding 
opportunities for young people, improving education and skills, and pursuing governance,
economic and social reforms so that the benefits of development reach all communities.
He described Pakistan’s youth as the country’s greatest strength and stressed the
importance of investing in their education, skills and opportunities.

The president also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, saying
the country would continue efforts to reduce tensions and promote regional stability.
He said Pakistan’s security was linked to peace and stability in the wider region
and reaffirmed support for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute
in accordance with the aspirations of its people and relevant U.N. resolutions.

** PM stresses economic progress and national unity**

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his Independence Day message, congratulated Pakistanis
on the completion of 79 years of independence and paid tribute to Muhammad Ali Jinnah,
Allama Muhammad Iqbal and the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement.

Sharif highlighted what he described as Pakistan’s progress despite economic and
other challenges, saying the government had worked over the past two and a half 
years to achieve economic stability and was now moving toward a developed economy.
He said remittances from overseas Pakistanis had increased by $11.3 billion over
the past two years, reflecting continued confidence in government policies.

The prime minister identified information technology, innovation-driven industrial
and agricultural development, public welfare projects, employment creation and education
and skills development as key government priorities. He also praised Pakistan’s 
armed forces and security personnel for their service and called on political parties
and all segments of society to work together to advance national interests, development,
peace, stability and unity.

##  India maintained drug supply cooperation with Iran despite transport barriers

- Link: https://www.tehranianonline.com/india-maintained-drug-supply-cooperation-with-iran-despite-transport-barriers/
- Published: 2026-08-12T13:54:13+03:30
- Author: MohammadReza AbeshAhmadLou

India continued cooperating with Iran on the supply and sale of medicines during
the war, but disruptions to land, sea and air transportation made it difficult to
move pharmaceutical shipments, Iran’s Food and Drug Administration chief said.

Mehdi Pir-Salehi, deputy health minister and head of the Food and Drug Administration,
said Indian cooperation in supplying medicines remained satisfactory and that the
main challenges were not related to India but to disruptions in international transportation.

“There was good cooperation from the Indian side in supplying and selling medicines,”
Pir-Salehi said, adding that restrictions on international transport affected the
movement of medicines and pharmaceutical raw materials.

![](https://www.tehranianonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/3869-1-1024x675.jpg)

Because Iran and India do not share a direct land route, shipments could not be 
transported by road. Maritime transport was also disrupted by restrictions and the
conditions created by the blockade, preventing the loading and movement of some 
shipments.

Air transport faced additional difficulties, Pir-Salehi said. Iranian flights were
not permitted to operate on some routes, limiting the country’s ability to use its
own aviation fleet to transport pharmaceutical shipments. Using foreign airlines
as an alternative required additional coordination and arrangements.

Pir-Salehi stressed the distinction between drug supply and drug transportation,
saying India continued to cooperate with Iran on the supply and sale of medicines,
while wartime restrictions on land, sea and air routes complicated their delivery.

Despite the transportation challenges, he said, efforts to secure medicines did 
not stop. Authorities continued exploring alternative routes and solutions to speed
up the arrival of shipments and maintain a stable supply of medicines.