Chabahar Port took center stage during discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at the BRICS summit in South Africa last August and again during a telephonic exchange in November amidst the Gaza crisis.
Strategic Partnership with Iran
In a significant move amid the geopolitical turbulence surrounding Iran, India is poised to finalize an agreement with Tehran to oversee the management of the Chabahar Port for the next decade. This development underscores India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Iran and expanding its strategic presence in the region.
Operational Control for Chabahar Port
The impending agreement signals India’s first foray into assuming operational control of a port overseas. Chabahar Port holds immense significance as a crucial connectivity conduit for India, facilitating access to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the broader Eurasian region. It also serves as a strategic counterbalance to Pakistan’s Gwadar port and China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative.
Integration with International Transport Corridor
Plans are underway to integrate Chabahar Port with the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which will further enhance India’s connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia, reducing dependence on Pakistan for trade routes.
Green Light from Ministry of External Affairs
The Ministry of External Affairs has approved a proposal by India Ports Global to assume operational control of Myanmar’s Sittwe Port, highlighting India’s expanding maritime footprint in the Bay of Bengal region.
Implications Amid Election Campaign
Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s upcoming visit to Iran for signing the Chabahar Port agreement holds significant implications, especially amidst a crucial election campaign period. The pact, which has been in the works for years, underscores India’s proactive approach to bolstering its strategic interests in the region.
History of Bilateral Engagements
The journey towards enhancing India’s role at Chabahar Port began in 2016 with the initial agreement signed during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Iran. Subsequent discussions took place during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s visit to India in 2018 and Foreign Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Tehran in January 2024.
Long-Term Agreement for Strategic Partnership
The forthcoming 10-year agreement is poised to supersede the original contract, reflecting the enduring commitment of both nations to deepening their strategic partnership and fostering economic cooperation.
[…] India to Forge 10-Year Agreement with Iran for Chabahar Port Management […]