Jaishankar could take part in the swearing-in of Iran's new president

New Delhi: Amid changing circumstances in Afghanistan, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is expected to represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi in Tehran on August 5.

Raisi is considered Iran's most radical leader. He is close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini. He won the presidential election in June by a landslide. India has already accepted Iran's invitation for the event. It is expected to be attended by representatives and leaders of some countries.

India, which has been indifferent to its relations with Iran for the past three years due to US sanctions, may change its stance. The Indian government is considering allowing its oil companies to buy crude oil from Iran.

Just last month, the foreign minister met with newly elected President Ibrahim Raisi during a visit to the Iranian capital, Tehran, during a visit to Russia. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar has spoken at length with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif over the phone in the past few days, given the changed situation and possible fears over strategic interests following the return of US troops to Afghanistan. Iran's role in this situation has become important in light of the escalating Taliban attacks in Afghanistan. In addition to being in contact with a large group of Taliban, Iran is also making peace between the Afghan government and the Taliban at its own level.