The Islamic Republic of Iran has expressed profound gratitude to India for its gesture of friendship and respect, following the attendance of an Indian delegation at the funeral ceremonies for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in Tehran.
India's Official Presence
An official delegation, representing the government and people of India, participated in the solemn ceremonies. Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain were among those who paid their respects on Friday.
The Iranian Embassy in India issued a statement thanking the Indian government and its people, specifically highlighting the presence of Indian political leaders, Members of Parliament, scholars, intellectuals, and leaders from India’s diverse faiths and religious communities. This broad representation, the embassy noted, underscored the deep historical, cultural, and human bonds that connect the two nations.
Enduring Ties and Future Strengthening
According to the embassy, India's participation was a "precious testament" to the enduring ties between Iran and India, laying a valuable foundation for further strengthening their longstanding friendship. The statement emphasized, "The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect."
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who served as Iran's Supreme Leader for three decades, reportedly passed away on February 28, following massive US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, as per the source. His funeral procession in Tehran was scheduled for July 6, with ceremonies continuing in Qom on July 7, and burial in Mashhad on July 9.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the funeral. Former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid also represented the Congress party at the ceremony.