India urges Central Asian countries to Use the Chabahar Port

Context

At Bishkek meet India has urged countries of the Central Asian regions to use the port of Chabahar located on the southeast coast of Iran to enhance connectivity and trade with India and other countries in the world.

Chabahar Port: A Key Transit Center

1. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC):

- India envisions transforming the Chabahar Port into a vital node within the INSTC. This ambitious corridor aims to streamline cargo movement between India, Central Asia, Russia, and Europe.
- By leveraging the ShahidBeheshti Port at Chabahar, India seeks to create a multi-modal logistical corridor that significantly reduces transportation costs and time.
- The INSTC holds immense potential for enhancing trade volume and fostering economic growth across the participating countries.

2. Central Asian Neighbors and Maritime Trade:

- India has extended a warm invitation to its Central Asian neighbors—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—to utilize both the Chabahar Port and the ShaheedBehesti terminal for maritime trade.
- The Chabahar Port serves as a gateway, linking the energy-rich Central Asian region with South Asian markets. It offers an alternative route that bypasses Pakistan, ensuring smoother connectivity.
- Central Asian countries stand to benefit from this collaboration, as it opens up new avenues for economic diversification and regional cooperation .

India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act

Engaging with the Taliban:
- Despite not recognizing the Taliban government in Afghanistan, India has engaged with the group in various formats.
- Recently, the head of the Indian ‘technical team’ participated in discussions in Kabul, signalling India’s commitment to peace and stability in the region.
- India’s approach is pragmatic: it emphasizes an inclusive and representative government in Afghanistan, based on consensus and dialogue.
- While safeguarding its legitimate economic and security interests, India continues to advocate for a stable Afghanistan.
The Regional Context:
- The Bishkek discussion came shortly after the Indian technical team’s interaction in Kabul. Although eyebrows were raised, India’s consistent policy in support of peace remains steadfast.
- India’s engagement with the Taliban underscores its role as a responsible regional player, balancing its interests while promoting stability.
- The Chabahar Port, in this context, becomes a conduit not only for trade but also for diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution.