Union Minister Sonowal reveals plans to replicate the Chabahar pact in strategic regions to bolster trade connectivity.
India’s ambition to replicate the success of the Chabahar port agreement in other strategic locations has been revealed by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. This move comes after India’s recent 10-year pact with Iran to operate the Chabahar port, aimed at enhancing trade connectivity and maritime presence.
Sonowal emphasized the importance of adhering to similar principles in identifying ports with economic advantages and investing in their development. The agreement signed between India Ports Global (IPGL) and Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization enables India to operate the Shahid Beheshti Port terminal for a decade.
Chabahar port, India’s first overseas port operation, is seen as a strategic response to China’s development of Gwadar port in Pakistan. Sonowal also highlighted Chabahar’s complementarity to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), despite its current stall due to regional tensions.
He acknowledged the potential risks associated with Chabahar operations but emphasized India’s commitment to mitigating them through diplomatic engagement and comprehensive risk management strategies. India’s move to operate its second overseas port, Sittwe in Myanmar, further underscores its strategic maritime objectives.
