May 13th 2024.
The bustling city of New Delhi was abuzz with excitement as India and Iran came together to sign a long-term contract. This contract was specifically for the operation of the Shahid Beheshti Port terminal at Chabahar, located in the southern coast of Iran. The signing of this contract was a significant moment for both countries and marked the first time India would be managing an overseas port.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who was accompanied by a team from India Ports Global Ltd. The Indian Embassy in Iran shared updates on the event through a series of posts on social media platform X. Sonowal, in his speech, expressed his delight at the signing of the contract and stated that it laid the foundation for India's long-term involvement in Chabahar.
The minister further emphasized the positive impact this contract would have on the viability and visibility of the Chabahar port. He highlighted the strategic location of the port, which not only makes it the closest Iranian port to India but also an excellent port from a nautical standpoint. Sonowal also held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart, further solidifying the close relationship between the two nations.
Chabahar port, located in the Sistan-Balochistan province, is a joint venture between India and Iran. The aim of this project is to boost connectivity and trade ties between the two nations. With its strategic location, the port holds immense potential for regional trade, especially for its connectivity to Afghanistan. In fact, India and Iran have projected the port as a key hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) project.
The INSTC is a multi-modal transport project spanning across 7,200 km and connects India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe. It is a significant step towards enhancing trade and economic cooperation between these countries. In line with this, the Ministry of External Affairs has allocated Rs 100 crore for the Chabahar port project for the year 2024-25, highlighting India's commitment to strengthening connectivity projects with Iran.
The signing of this long-term contract between India and Iran marks a new chapter in their bilateral relations. It not only strengthens their economic ties but also reflects the mutual trust and cooperation between the two nations. With this, the Chabahar port is set to become a key player in facilitating trade and connectivity in the region, paving the way for a brighter future for both India and Iran.
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