New Delhi: India and Iran held extensive discussions on enhancing bilateral ties during the 19th India-Iran Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi on 3rd January. Key topics included the development of the Chabahar Port, expanding trade and economic partnerships, and exploring agricultural and other areas of collaboration.
The Iranian delegation, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi, urged India to consider resuming crude oil imports from Iran, which were halted in mid-2019 due to US sanctions. The Indian team was headed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
Chabahar Port, A Joint Initiative Aimed To Enhance Connectivity And Trade
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met Ravanchi to deliberate on bilateral issues and regional challenges. Jaishankar shared on X (formerly Twitter), "Discussed our bilateral ties, progress in Chabahar port, and regional developments. Confident that the Foreign Office Consultations will give momentum to our partnership."
The Chabahar Port, strategically located in Iran's Sistan-Balochistan province, is a joint initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that the consultations covered a comprehensive review of the bilateral relationship, including trade, agriculture, cultural ties, and people-to-people exchanges.
Iran To Boost Tourism As Part Of Strengthening Ties
Iran emphasized boosting tourism as part of strengthening these ties. Discussions also addressed regional and global developments, including the situations in Afghanistan, West Asia, and the South Caucasus. The Indian side highlighted the importance of Chabahar Port in aiding Afghanistan's reconstruction and economic growth.
Both nations reiterated their commitment to multilateral cooperation through forums such as the United Nations, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Notably, BRICS has expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE alongside its founding members.
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A senior Iranian official expressed Tehran’s interest in resuming crude oil supplies to India and diversifying the trade basket, particularly in the petrochemical sector, leveraging the Chabahar Port's potential.
The consultations mark a renewed push towards deepening India-Iran ties and exploring avenues for broader collaboration in trade and regional connectivity.
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