India-Iran Invigorate Ties
Dr. S. Jaishankar's recent visit to Iran underscored the enduring high-level exchanges between India and Iran, focusing on expanding political and economic relations. His meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdolahian, Roads and Urban Development Minister Mehrdad Bazrpash, and President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi were pivotal in reinforcing the close ties rooted in shared cultural, literary, and linguistic heritage. A key development was India's announcement of inclusion of Farsi as one of the 9 primary languages in its National Education Policy, reflecting the deepening cultural connection.
In the wake of a recent terrorist attack in Iran, Jaishankar's discussions also covered maritime security and regional stability, reaffirming India's commitment to peace amidst threats from groups like ISIS, which took responsibility for the bombings in Kerman, Iran. Dr Jaishankar also reiterated India’s stance on the Palestine-Israel conflict by advocating for a two-state solution through diplomacy and talks.
The visit emphasised regional connectivity, with discussions on leveraging Iran's strategic position to access Central Asian, Afghan, and Russian markets. The International North-South Transportation Corridor (INSTC) and the development of the Chabahar port were central to these talks. Chabahar port's development is a crucial countermove to China's presence in Gwadar, Pakistan, and showcases India's increasing influence in the region. Despite global sanctions, India's commitment to Iran, exemplified by the final agreement on Chabahar port, marks a significant stride in bilateral trade and cooperation. This collaboration builds on the aim to create regional development and peace in addition to creating a time and cost effective transit connection between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Russia. Iran’s continued commitment to strengthen relations with India after the former joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation last year highlights India's role as a key partner in Iran's economic and strategic landscape.
