External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in extensive discussions on Monday with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, in Tehran. The focal points of their conversation centered around establishing a long-term framework for India’s participation in the strategically vital Chabahar port and the North-South connectivity project (INSTC).
As part of the ongoing high-level exchanges between the two nations, Mr. Jaishankar’s visit holds significance in reinforcing diplomatic ties and exploring avenues for mutual cooperation. The Chabahar port, situated in southeastern Iran, has emerged as a critical asset for India, providing a gateway to access Central Asia and facilitating trade routes.
The External Affairs Minister underscored the importance of strengthening India’s engagement with Chabahar port, recognizing its strategic value in enhancing regional connectivity and trade. The long-term framework discussed aims to solidify India’s commitment to the port’s development and utilization.
About India-Iran Bilateral Talks:
Moreover, the discussions extended to the North-South connectivity project, a key initiative that aims to establish a multimodal transportation network connecting India, Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia. This project holds immense potential for fostering economic cooperation and regional integration.
In addition to his talks with Amirabdollahian, Mr. Jaishankar paid a courtesy visit to Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi. During this meeting, he conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further emphasizing the amicable relations between the two countries.
The diplomatic exchanges underscore India’s keen interest in expanding its strategic footprint in the region, with a focus on infrastructure development and connectivity projects. The collaborative efforts in Chabahar and the INSTC connectivity project align with India’s broader vision of enhancing regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, India’s proactive engagement with Iran not only strengthens bilateral ties but also contributes to regional stability and economic growth. The discussions in Tehran reflect a commitment to nurturing long-term partnerships that extend beyond diplomatic niceties, emphasizing tangible cooperation and shared economic benefits.
