Iran’s envoy calls Chabahar Port key to regional connectivity, shared growth with India
NEW DELHI: Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Monday described the Chabahar Port project as a symbol of the strong partnership between India and Iran, saying it plays a crucial role in promoting common development and regional connectivity.Speaking at a reception hosted by the Iranian Embassy in India to mark Iranian National Day, Ambassador Fathali said ties between the two countries are deeply rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation. He underlined that this long-standing cultural connection provides a strong foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation.“Relations between Iran and India are rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilisation and based on common culture,” the envoy said, as per news agency ANI. “This rich heritage is a valuable asset for expanding bilateral cooperation. The Chabahar Port project, as a symbol of the cooperation between our two countries, plays an important role in the common development and regional connectivity,” he added.
India reiterates commitment to bilateral ties
Secretary (West) in the ministry of external affairs, Sibi George, represented India as the Chief Guest at the reception. He conveyed warm congratulations to the government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. In a post on X, the MEA said, “Secretary (West) Sibi George represented India as the Chief Guest at the Iranian National Day reception hosted by @Iran_in_India. He conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Iran and reaffirmed India’s enduring commitment to bilateral ties”. India first proposed developing the Chabahar Port in 2003 to create an alternative route for Indian goods to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia through road and rail links under the International North-South Transport Corridor, bypassing Pakistan. Progress on the project had earlier slowed due to US sanctions on Iran related to its suspected nuclear programme.To operationalise India’s role, a long-term agreement was later signed between Indian Ports Global Limited and Iran’s Port and Maritime Organisation, replacing the initial 2016 pact that had been extended annually. In recent years, Chabahar has been used for key consignments, including the shipment of 20,000 tonnes of wheat assistance to Afghanistan in 2023.