India-Iran Discuss Long-Term Cooperation for Chabahar Port

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development to explore the establishment of a “long-term cooperation framework” for the Chabahar port, a crucial maritime facility on Iran’s southeastern coast. Jaishankar, currently in Iran as part of ongoing high-level exchanges, emphasized India’s vision to develop Chabahar Port as a transit hub under the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) to enhance connectivity with CIS countries.

In a post, Jaishankar mentioned, “Began my engagements in Tehran by meeting Minister of Roads and Urban Development @mehrdadbazrpash. Detailed and productive discussion on establishing a long-term cooperation framework with respect to Chabahar port.” The talks also delved into the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), reflecting India’s aim to streamline trade routes between the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, Caspian Sea, and northern Europe.

PM Modi’s discussions with Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi in August last year reaffirmed their commitment to bolster bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the potential of Chabahar Port as a pivotal connectivity hub. Chabahar Port plays a vital role in India’s connectivity initiatives, offering a shorter trade route for India, Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.

The INSTC, envisioned as a multi-modal transportation route, connects the Indian Ocean to the Caspian Sea via Iran, extending to northern Europe through Russia. The route involves sea and road transport from Mumbai to Chabahar, then road transport to Bandar-e-Anzali on the Caspian Sea, followed by ship transport to Astrakhan in Russia and further into Europe via Russian railways.

Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, for discussions on bilateral, regional, and global issues, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.