Jaishankar Defends Chabahar Deal Amid US Sanction Warning: A Closer Look

In Short

• Jaishankar says US itself had appreciated ‘larger relevance’ of Chabahar
• India signed 10-year contract with Iran to operate Chabahar port
• US warned of ‘potential risk of sanctions’ for doing business with Iran

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasized the broader significance of India’s strategic partnership with Iran, particularly in relation to the Chabahar port deal, amidst recent warnings from the United States regarding potential sanctions.

Speaking at a book launch event in Kolkata, Jaishankar asserted that the Chabahar port agreement would not only benefit India but also hold substantial advantages for the entire region, urging stakeholders not to adopt a narrow perspective on the matter.

Highlighting the historical acknowledgment by the US of the Chabahar port’s strategic importance, Jaishankar emphasized the need for effective communication and persuasion to convey the mutual benefits of the deal.

He stated, “It’s a question of communicating, convincing and getting people to understand, that this is actually for everyone’s benefit.

I don’t think people should take a narrow view of it.”

Jaishankar’s remarks come in response to recent warnings issued by the United States, cautioning against business dealings with Iran and hinting at the possibility of sanctions.

However, Jaishankar pointed out that the US itself had previously recognized the broader relevance of the Chabahar port.

He stressed, “If you look at the US’ own attitude towards the port in Chabahar, the US has been appreciative of the fact that Chabahar has a larger relevance… we will work at it.”

The Chabahar port deal, initiated in 2018, holds significant strategic and economic implications for India and the region.

With the United States granting exemptions to certain sanctions related to the port’s development, India committed to a 10-year contract with Iran to operate the Chabahar port, situated on Iran’s southern coast.

This move was aimed at facilitating trade with Central Asian countries and providing India with an alternative route to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.

Under the terms of the agreement, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) pledged a $250 million investment to enhance the port’s infrastructure.

The Chabahar port, located on the Gulf of Oman, is poised to play a crucial role in bolstering India’s connectivity and trade prospects in the region.

However, amidst discussions surrounding the Chabahar deal, concerns have been raised by the US regarding Iran’s alleged involvement in activities deemed detrimental to global security.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, in an exclusive interview with India Today TV, highlighted Iran’s perceived role in sponsoring terrorism and destabilizing actions in the Middle East and beyond.

Garcetti cautioned businesses about the risks associated with engaging with Iran, citing its alleged support for terrorist activities and recent conflicts with sovereign nations like Israel.

While acknowledging exceptions for strategic interests, Garcetti emphasized the need for awareness among businesses regarding the potential ramifications of dealing with Iran.

In summary, the Chabahar port deal remains a focal point of strategic and diplomatic discussions, with India emphasizing its broader regional significance while navigating potential challenges posed by US sanctions and concerns over Iran’s geopolitical actions.