📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Amohammadid
International
India's MEA says Chabahar Port vital for Central Asian connectivity
✍️ Asianet Newsable
🗓 28 Aug 2026, 02:02 AM
👁 67
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted Chabahar Port in Iran as a strategic gateway for India to enhance trade and transport links with Central Asian nations.
New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated that Iran’s Chabahar Port is a cornerstone of India’s effort to secure over‑land connectivity to the landlocked nations of Central Asia. The statement, conveyed to Asianet Newsable, underscored the port’s role in facilitating cargo movement under the International North‑South Transport Corridor and related regional projects.
Chabahar, located on the Gulf of Oman, offers India a maritime foothold that bypasses Pakistan, enabling faster access to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and beyond. Officials said the port complements existing initiatives such as the Turkmenistan‑Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline and the proposed railway links.
The MEA emphasized that deepening cooperation with Iran on infrastructure, customs and security will be essential to unlock the full potential of the route. While details of specific investments were not disclosed, the ministry signalled continued diplomatic engagement to ensure smooth operations and mutual benefits.
Analysts note that the strategic importance of Chabahar aligns with India’s broader “Act East” and “Neighbourhood First” policies, seeking diversified trade corridors amid regional geopolitical shifts.
Chabahar, located on the Gulf of Oman, offers India a maritime foothold that bypasses Pakistan, enabling faster access to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and beyond. Officials said the port complements existing initiatives such as the Turkmenistan‑Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline and the proposed railway links.
The MEA emphasized that deepening cooperation with Iran on infrastructure, customs and security will be essential to unlock the full potential of the route. While details of specific investments were not disclosed, the ministry signalled continued diplomatic engagement to ensure smooth operations and mutual benefits.
Analysts note that the strategic importance of Chabahar aligns with India’s broader “Act East” and “Neighbourhood First” policies, seeking diversified trade corridors amid regional geopolitical shifts.