Noting that it is closely watching the situation unfolding in Iran, India on Friday said it remains engaged with the US on an unconditional sanctions waiver for the crucial Chabahar Port project, which is valid until April 26, 2026.
‘’Effective immediately, any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This order is final and conclusive,’’ President Trump wrote on ‘X’, creating fresh economic troubles for the Islamic nation, which is witnessing large-scale anti-government protests.
Widespread protests in Iran have prompted New Delhi to closely track risks to India’s Chabahar Port project, a key gateway for regional trade and strategic access routes.
During his meeting with Azizi, Jaishankar held discussions on strengthening bilateral trade, connectivity, and people-to-people ties between the two nations.
The MEA spokesperson further added that New Delhi is examining the implications that the exemption for the country.
“The Chabahar Port has not only emerged as a commercial transit hub for the region but also facilitated the delivery of humanitarian assistance, especially during the pandemic. The port is part of our shared commitment towards peace, stability and prosperity of the people of Afghanistan,” external affairs Minister S Jaishankar said.
China is the only major player still active in the Iranian oil patch. In contrast to virtually all major Western governments, Beijing allows its companies to do business there. China considers sanctions against Iran as an opportunity to secure huge fields and markets which might have gone to Western companies in the absence of sanctions
There is the worry of reputational damage from the idea that India gave in to US sanctions, a departure from the past. Chinas growing inroads in Iran could make Indian projects there more unviable. The largest worry is that Chabahar, the enduring symbol of India-Iran friendship, could become collateral damage in a larger proxy war between the US and China
China has taken advantage of Iran's current weak position as its economy is under strain because of harsh US sanctions and negotiated a pact from a position of strength. It is going to have easy access to Iran's natural resources for many years to come.
Medical tourism to India from Central Asia has a great demand and the Indian healthcare industry should endeavor to meet it better so that each visiting patient goes back fully satisfied, Jaishankar said.
