Modi Champions Investment Boost for Iran’s Chabahar Port: A Strategic Move for India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed strong support for India’s investment in the Chabahar Port, which is Iran’s only ocean port located on the Sea of Oman. This strategic port is seen as a key element in enhancing trade relations with Central Asia.
Jaideep Mazumdar, the Secretary for East in the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the port’s growing significance in improving connectivity to Afghanistan and Central Asia in recent years. He stated, “As the Trump administration threatens to roll back the sanction waiver that allowed India to develop the strategic Chabahar port in Iran, the Indian government Monday strongly backed the port, saying it has provided a much-needed alternative route to Afghanistan for its reconstruction and economic development, while boosting trade linkages with Central Asia,” as quoted by Times of India.
This statement comes just ahead of Modi’s anticipated visit to the United States, where he will meet with US President Donald Trump. The discussions will focus on avoiding a potentially devastating trade war between the two allied nations.
Recently, President Trump signed an order that directs the Secretary of State to consider modifying or rescinding sanctions waivers related to the Chabahar Port project. This has raised concerns regarding the future of the initiative.
Ali Akbar Safaei, managing director of Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization, provided insight into the current status of the project. He mentioned that:
- India is actively operating the first phase of the Chabahar project, which is valued at $120 million.
- To date, $85 million has already been transferred for the project.
- Contracts for construction equipment at the port are currently underway.
The developments surrounding Chabahar Port are crucial not only for India and Iran but also for enhancing regional connectivity and trade with Central Asia.
