India is set to ink a historic 10-year agreement with Iran to oversee the operations of Chabahar Port, in a move aimed at strategically countering Pakistan’s Gwadar Port and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The pact signifies a significant geopolitical maneuver amid India’s busy election season, with profound regional implications.
India is poised to enter into an agreement with Iran for the management of Chabahar Port for the next decade. This move, taking place amidst a busy election season, is seen as a significant geopolitical outreach to Iran with major regional implications.
Reliable sources indicate that shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal is scheduled to visit Iran for the signing ceremony. This marks India’s first instance of taking over the management of an overseas port, highlighting its strategic significance.
Chabahar Port is crucial for India’s connectivity to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the wider Eurasian region, serving as a counterbalance to Pakistan’s Gwadar port and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Plans are underway to connect Chabahar with the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), bypassing Pakistan and facilitating access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
The agreement, long in the making, underscores India’s commitment to the region’s stability and development. The timing of the agreement amidst the West Asia crisis further emphasizes its significance for India’s strategic interests.
Chabahar has been a focal point of discussions between Indian and Iranian leaders, with agreements signed in 2016 and discussions continuing in subsequent years. The new 10-year agreement aims to replace the original contract, ensuring stability and continuity in operations.
The pact not only strengthens India’s foothold in the region but also opens up opportunities for resource-rich Central Asian states to access the Indian Ocean Region and the Indian market. India’s proactive approach in promoting Chabahar over Karachi port signals its intent to emerge as a key player in the region’s economic landscape.
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