Iran’s envoy calls Chabahar port key to regional connectivity and growth with India
New Delhi: Iranian Ambassador to India Mohammad Fatali on Monday described chabahar port The project is a symbol of the strong partnership between India and Iran and plays an important role in promoting common development and regional connectivity.Ambassador Fatali, speaking at an Iran National Day reception hosted by the Iranian Embassy in India, said the relationship between the two countries is deeply rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilization. He emphasized that this long-term cultural connection provides a solid foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation.“Relations between Iran and India are rooted in thousands of years of shared history and civilization and are based on a common culture,” the envoy said, according to news agency ANI. “These rich heritages are valuable assets for expanding bilateral cooperation. The Chabahar Port project, as a symbol of cooperation between our two countries, plays an important role in common development and regional connectivity.”
India reaffirms commitment to bilateral relations
Sibi George, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs of India, represented India at the reception as the chief guest. He extended warm congratulations to the government and people of Iran and reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.MEA said in a post on India first proposed developing the Chabahar port in 2003 to create an alternative route for Indian goods to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan through road and rail connections along the International North-South Transport Corridor. Progress on the project had earlier slowed due to U.S. sanctions on Iran over its alleged nuclear programme.To leverage India’s role, Indian Ports Global Limited and the Iranian Ports and Maritime Organization subsequently signed a long-term agreement, replacing the original 2016 agreement that was extended annually. In recent years, Chabahar has been used to transport important cargo, including 20,000 tons of wheat aid to Afghanistan in 2023.
