In response to the cautionary note from the United States regarding potential repercussions for India following the formalization of a decade-long accord to oversee operations at the Chabahar port in Iran, S Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, conveyed that a broader perspective is imperative, emphasizing the mutual advantages of the undertaking.
Addressing assertions made by Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US State Department, Jaishankar asserted during a gathering in Kolkata on Tuesday, “Whilst I have noted some of the commentary, it is incumbent upon us to effectively communicate, persuade, and foster understanding that the Chabahar port endeavor is indeed to the benefit of all stakeholders. We must eschew narrow viewpoints in this regard.”
Jaishankar highlighted that historically, the United States had not adopted a hostile stance towards Chabahar, underscoring its recognition of the port’s broader significance.
Moreover, Jaishankar elucidated the reasons behind India’s delayed commitment to a comprehensive agreement despite its longstanding involvement in the project. “Various challenges on the Iranian side, including alterations in the composition of joint-venture partners and contractual terms, necessitated resolution. Ultimately, we were able to navigate through these complexities and finalize the long-term agreement. This accord is indispensable as without it, the optimization of port operations would be unattainable. We firmly believe that the operationalization of the port will redound to the benefit of the entire region,” affirmed the External Affairs Minister.
The signing of the Long-Term Bilateral Contract between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPCL) and Iran’s Port & Maritime Organization (PMO) transpired on Monday. Emblematic of the robust bilateral ties between the two nations, the Chabahar initiative assumes critical significance as a transit point for trade with Afghanistan and landlocked states in Central Asia.
Under the terms of the agreement, India has extended a line of credit amounting to $250 million to facilitate infrastructure development surrounding this strategic enclave situated along the Gulf of Oman. Acknowledged as India’s indispensable conduit for connectivity to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the wider Eurasian domain, the Chabahar Port is poised to serve as a counterweight to Pakistan’s Gwadar port and China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative. Efforts are underway to integrate Chabahar with the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), thereby affording India alternate access routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia, obviating dependence on Pakistani transit routes.
The Chabahar Port in Iran has emerged as pivotal to India’s outreach to Afghanistan and Central Asia, circumventing the constraints posed by Pakistan. This accord signifies a steadfast commitment to fortifying both trade and strategic bonds between India and Iran.