Iran Urges India to Continue Chabahar Port Development Amid US Sanctions
Iran FM Abbas Araghchi urges India to continue work on Chabahar port: ‘Golden gateway to Central Asia’
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has urged India to maintain its involvement in the Chabahar port project, describing it as a vital link to Central Asia. Despite the expiration of a US sanctions waiver, Araghchi expressed hope for continued cooperation, emphasizing the port's strategic significance for both nations.
- 01The Chabahar port is seen as a crucial access point for India to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.
- 02India has not allocated any funds for the Chabahar port project in its 2026-27 Union Budget.
- 03Strategic expert Brahma Chellaney warned that India's withdrawal could allow China to fill the void in the region.
- 04Iran's deputy foreign minister stated that India's future actions regarding the port are critical.
- 05Araghchi acknowledged India's positive diplomatic role in the Persian Gulf region.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called on India to continue its efforts in developing the Chabahar port, which he described as a 'golden gateway' to Central Asia. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi emphasized the significance of the port for enhancing connectivity between India and Central Asia, as well as for other countries accessing the Indian Ocean. This appeal comes after the expiration of the US sanctions waiver for India, which had allowed it to operate at the port. Despite this, India has not yet withdrawn from the project, although it did not allocate any funds for it in the 2026-27 Union Budget. Strategic expert Brahma Chellaney noted that India's involvement is crucial, as its exit could create opportunities for China in the region. Araghchi also praised India's diplomatic reputation and its potential to foster peace and security in the Persian Gulf. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Indian government during his visit for the BRICS foreign ministers' summit.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The future of the Chabahar port project directly affects India's strategic access to Central Asia and Afghanistan, impacting trade and regional influence.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should India continue investing in the Chabahar port despite US sanctions?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



