India will send a high-level delegation to represent the country at the state funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday.

The delegation will include Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain, who are scheduled to travel to Iran on July 3 to attend the funeral ceremonies.

India Announces Official Representation

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said the two senior representatives will attend the state funeral on behalf of the Government of India.

The ministry said the visit reflects the long-standing relationship between India and Iran.

According to the statement, India's participation highlights the importance of the two countries' civilizational ties, people-to-people connections, and continued political and economic engagement.

Funeral Ceremonies Begin in Tehran

Iran has planned a week-long series of funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The events will begin in Tehran on July 4 before continuing through several religious cities.

Khamenei is scheduled to be buried on July 9 in Mashhad, his hometown and one of Iran's holiest cities.

Authorities expect millions of mourners and several international delegations to attend the ceremonies.

Khamenei Killed During Conflict

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for more than three decades, was killed on February 28 during U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that marked the beginning of a wider regional conflict.

His death triggered major political developments in Iran and across the Middle East.

The funeral marks one of the country's largest state ceremonies in recent decades.

India and Iran Maintain Historic Relations

India and Iran share longstanding diplomatic, cultural and economic ties.

The two countries have cooperated in areas including:

• Trade and energy.
• Regional connectivity.
• Cultural exchanges.
• Infrastructure development.
• Strategic dialogue.

India's decision to send senior representatives underscores its continued engagement with Iran despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit reflects the importance both countries place on maintaining their historical relationship and strengthening future cooperation.