New Delhi

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday described the Chabahar Port project as a key symbol of India-Iran cooperation and urged New Delhi to continue its investments despite challenges posed by US sanctions.

Speaking to the media after the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Araghchi praised India’s contribution to the development of the strategic port and highlighted its long-term significance for regional connectivity and trade.

“Chabahar Port is one of the major symbols of cooperation between Iran and India. We are pleased that India has played an important role in its development,” he said.

Responding to a question regarding the future of the project, Araghchi admitted that progress had slowed because of US sanctions but stressed that the partnership between the two countries remained intact.

The Chabahar corridor is considered strategically important for India as it provides access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. However, the project has faced renewed uncertainty after the US sanctions waiver for the port expired on April 26, despite India signing a 10-year agreement in 2024 to operate the Shahid Beheshti terminal.

Araghchi nevertheless expressed confidence in the project’s future, calling the port a “golden gate” for trade and connectivity.

“This port can become a gateway for India to reach Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe, while also providing those regions access to the Indian Ocean,” he said. “I hope India will continue its work so that Chabahar is fully developed for the benefit of India and other countries.”

The Iranian minister also praised India’s diplomatic approach in the Gulf region and suggested that New Delhi could play a larger role in promoting peace and stability in West Asia.

“India enjoys a good reputation and can contribute more actively to diplomacy and regional peace. India maintains friendly relations with all countries in the Persian Gulf,” Araghchi said.

While appreciating India’s “constructive role,” he criticised the United States over the current regional situation, describing the ceasefire as fragile and accusing Washington of obstructing peace efforts.

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“There is no military solution regarding Iran. The US has tested us repeatedly, but Iran will never surrender to pressure or threats,” he asserted.