New Delhi, 08 April (H.S.):

India has welcomed the ceasefire announcement between Iran and the United States amid ongoing conflict in West Asia, expressing optimism for enduring regional stability.

The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the world has paid a heavy price for the hostilities and anticipates progress toward permanent peace.

In its Wednesday statement, the MEA affirmed: We welcome the ceasefire and hope it will lead to lasting peace in West Asia. It reiterated India's consistent stance that de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy remain essential to swiftly end the conflict.

The statement highlighted the conflict's toll on civilians and its disruption to global energy supplies and trade networks. India expects uninterrupted navigation and commerce through the Strait of Hormuz to resume without hindrance.

Notably, the US has agreed to the ceasefire, with Israel also endorsing it after consultations with mediator nations. Preparations are underway for direct talks between the US and Iran. The military escalation began on February 28 with joint US-Israel strikes on Iran.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar