Moscow/New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) The External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged in a phone discussion with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday, where they addressed the conflict in West Asia and explored avenues for enhancing bilateral relations.

"Had a productive telephonic discussion with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov of Russia. We exchanged our evaluations on the West Asia conflict and the associated diplomatic initiatives. We also reviewed our bilateral cooperation framework," EAM Jaishankar shared on X.

This communication occurred amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, which intensified following joint US-Israel military actions against Iran on February 28, prompting a significant retaliation from Tehran through drone and missile strikes targeting US interests, regional capitals, and allied forces in the area.

Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar also engaged with Kaja Kallas, the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to deliberate on the West Asia conflict and its broader implications.

Subsequent to their conversation, EAM Jaishankar tweeted, "Engaged in a constructive dialogue with EU HRVP Kaja Kallas regarding the West Asia conflict and its far-reaching effects."

He further spoke with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on the same day, discussing the prevailing security dynamics in West Asia.

"Valued the exchange of insights today with FM Jean-Noel Barrot of France concerning the West Asia conflict. Eager to continue our dialogue in person," EAM Jaishankar noted on X after their call.

In recent days, EAM Jaishankar has also been in contact with several other foreign ministers, including those from Italy, Iran, and Oman, as India maintains close communication with regional governments and key international partners in light of the ongoing security crisis in West Asia.

India has consistently championed de-escalation, restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy as essential steps forward, while ensuring the safety of Indian nationals in the area and securing uninterrupted energy supplies.

On Tuesday, Jaishankar had an extensive phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, focusing on the current developments in the West Asia conflict.

In a follow-up post on X, Jaishankar remarked, "Had a detailed discussion this evening with Foreign Minister @araghchi of Iran regarding the ongoing conflict developments. We agreed to stay in close contact."

Additionally, EAM Jaishankar spoke with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Tuesday, discussing both bilateral relations and the situation in West Asia.

"The two ministers also shared perspectives on the Korean Peninsula situation and the regional dynamics, particularly focusing on the Middle East, which significantly influences global security and economic conditions. They agreed to maintain close collaboration on national security measures in response to developments in this crucial region," stated a release from South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Following their discussions, EAM Jaishankar posted on X, expressing, "Had a fruitful conversation with FM Cho Hyun of RoK. Discussed advancing our bilateral agenda, along with the situation in West Asia and its energy ramifications."

EAM Jaishankar also had a phone discussion with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict.

"Shared insights with FM Johann Wadephul of Germany regarding the ongoing West Asia conflict," EAM Jaishankar tweeted after their exchange.