DMPQ: Where is Chahabhar Port located and why it was in the news? Discuss its importance for India. (IR)
Iran’s Chabahar port is located on the Gulf of Oman and is the only oceanic port of the country. The port gives access to the energy-rich Persian Gulf nations’ southern coast. Iran formally handed over the port to India recently during a first meeting of the follow-up committee for the implementation of the Chabahar Agreement between Iran, Afghanistan, and India held recently in the port city Tehran.
Importance of chahbhar port:
- The operationalisation of Chabahar port is a milestone in India’s regional connectivity and trade game plan.
- Chabahar port opens up a permanent alternative route for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, given the hurdles in the direct route through Pakistan.
- It facilitates India’s role in Afghanistan’s development through infrastructure and education projects.
- It gives a big boost to India’s bilateral ties with Iran, which is a major oil supplier and potential trade market for India.
