NEW DELHI: The Embassy of Iran in India expressed gratitude to the government and people of India for participating in the funeral ceremonies of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, saying the gesture reflected the ‘deep historical, cultural and human bonds’ between the two countries.In a post on X, the embassy thanked the official Indian delegation, political leaders and citizens who attended the ceremonies and paid tribute to Khamenei.“The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Republic of India extends its heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to the friendly Government and people of India, especially the official delegation that attended on behalf of the Government and people of India, for participating in the funeral ceremonies and paying tribute to the martyred Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei,” the embassy said.The embassy said the presence of Indian political leaders, Members of Parliament, scholars, intellectuals and representatives of different faiths highlighted the close relationship between the two countries.“The esteemed presence of political leaders, Members of Parliament, eminent scholars, intellectuals, and leaders of India’s diverse faiths and religious communities at these solemn ceremonies reflected the deep historical, cultural, and human bonds between our two nations. It also stood as a powerful expression of mutual respect and sincere solidarity with the people of Iran during this time of national mourning,” it said.Expressing appreciation for India’s participation, the embassy said the gesture would not be forgotten by the Iranian people.“The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect. They regard it as a precious testament to the enduring ties between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of India, and as a valuable foundation for further strengthening the longstanding friendship between our two countries,” the post added.The embassy also thanked Indian officials, public figures and citizens who expressed sympathy following Khamenei’s death.“The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India once again conveys its sincere appreciation to all Indian officials, distinguished personalities, and the noble people of India who stood with the people of Iran and expressed their sympathy during this period of grief,” it said.The message came after an Indian delegation travelled to Tehran to attend the state funeral ceremonies, which were attended by foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and representatives from nearly 100 countries. External affairs state minister Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain represented the government at the ceremony.The delegation also included senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti, who paid tribute to Khamenei during the ceremonies.According to Iranian state media, the funeral ceremonies began at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla in Tehran before continuing across several cities in Iran and Iraq. Authorities mounted extensive security arrangements for the six-day mourning period.Following Khamenei’s death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic. Iranian media reported that he would not attend the funeral ceremonies because of security concerns amid continued regional tensions.
