New Delhi/Helsinki, March 17 (NationPress) Finnish President Alexander Stubb has proposed that India might assume a vital role in diplomatic efforts to alleviate tensions between the United States and Iran, advocating for an immediate ceasefire as the situation in West Asia continues to escalate.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Stubb emphasized that global initiatives should concentrate on ceasing hostilities and fostering dialogue, highlighting that India could make significant contributions to these diplomatic endeavors.

"A ceasefire is essential... I wonder if India can take an active role. We witnessed Foreign Minister Jaishankar call for a ceasefire to de-escalate tensions," he remarked.

The Finnish President's statements coincided with India's ongoing engagement with Tehran amid rising regional confrontations.

Recently, India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar conducted another telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to evaluate the rapidly changing circumstances.

During their discussion, Araghchi informed India about the latest developments, attributing the ongoing conflict to what he termed the "aggressions" of the United States and Israel. He also conveyed Iran's commitment to exercising its right to self-defense while warning that the situation could escalate into broader regional and global implications.

India has been vigilantly observing these developments, particularly due to concerns regarding regional stability, energy security, and the safety of Indian citizens in the area.

In line with India's diplomatic initiatives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian amid the rising hostilities.

Following their conversation, PM Modi expressed India's profound concerns regarding the escalating conflict and the increasing civilian casualties. He stressed that guaranteeing the safety and security of Indian nationals in the area, alongside maintaining uninterrupted transit of goods and energy supplies, remains a crucial priority for New Delhi.

Stubb's comments occurred in the context of his recent state visit to India from March 4 to 7, 2026, during which he served as the Chief Guest at the Raisina Dialogue.

During this visit, the Finnish President commended India's international stature and its expanding role in global affairs, while also noting the nation’s economic growth and its foreign policy approach.

In a joint press statement alongside PM Modi, Stubb referred to India as "one of the world's largest and most influential nations and the world's largest democracy," calling it a pivotal strategic partner for Europe.

He acknowledged India's increasing importance in areas such as foreign and security policy, as well as trade and economic collaborations, which is becoming progressively significant for European countries.

Stubb also underscored India's economic growth trajectory, recognizing it as one of the fastest-growing major economies globally.

He lauded New Delhi's foreign policy framework, which he described as being informed by a pragmatic and realistic worldview.

According to him, India's diplomatic strategy manages to balance strategic caution while preserving its autonomy and continuing to advocate for multilateral cooperation on global issues.

Reflecting on India's role in global diplomacy, Stubb asserted, "I personally believe we should all strive to adopt a little more of an Indian perspective."

At the Raisina Dialogue, the Finnish President reiterated India's expanding influence on the global stage, including its contributions to peacekeeping operations and its proactive involvement within the United Nations.

He further highlighted India's capability to harmonize national interests with broader global principles while engaging with nations across various regions.

Stubb proposed that New Delhi is emerging as a crucial player in shaping the evolving global order, especially as nations from the Global South gain increased influence in international decision-making.