Iran has reiterated its openness to deeper cooperation with India on the strategic Chabahar port project, even as challenges persist around funding and sanctions, Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Fathali said on Friday.
Addressing the press at the Iranian embassy in New Delhi, Fathali underscored the importance of the Chabahar port as a key gateway for accessing Afghanistan and Central Asia, and emphasised Tehran’s willingness to work with India on expanding cooperation at the facility. The comments come amid shifting dynamics after India’s budgetary allocation for the port was reduced to zero in the 2026–27 Union Budget, reflecting broader geopolitical and fiscal constraints.
The Chabahar port, located in Iran’s southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province, has long been a cornerstone of bilateral ties and regional connectivity plans, including through the International North-South Transport Corridor. India and Iran previously signed a long-term contract for the development and operation of the port’s Shahid Beheshti terminal, aimed at strengthening trade links with Afghanistan and Central Asian markets.
Fathali’s remarks also highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagement, noting that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is expected to attend this year’s BRICS Summit in India—a visit seen as an opportunity to renew momentum on bilateral cooperation.
As both sides navigate financial and geopolitical headwinds, Iran’s statement signals a continued interest in keeping Chabahar at the centre of India-Iran economic and strategic collaboration.
