India, Jan. 1 -- Iran's government is responding to public protests over inflation with dialogue aimed at seeking practical solutions to economic problems that have arisen because of "unjust sanctions imposed by the West", Iranian ambassador Mohammad Fathali said on Thursday.

In his first interview with an Indian newspaper, Fathali spoke about India and Iran seeking practical solutions to continue developing the strategic Chabahar port so that it doesn't become a "hostage to decisions of third countries". He also highlighted the important role India can play in the Gaza peace process. Edited excerpts:

How is Iran's government responding to protests in Tehran and several other cities? What are the causes of these protests?

The governmen...