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New Delhi. The Government of India has given relief information amid reports of US military action on Iran’s strategically important Chabahar Port. The Ministry of External Affairs has clarified that there has been no damage to the ‘Shahid Beheshti Terminal’ operated by India. The government also said that even after the end of the special sanctions exemption given to Chabahar by America, talks are going on with all the concerned parties on this issue.

Foreign Ministry gave information about the situation

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in the weekly press conference that India is constantly monitoring the developments to the American attacks. He said that the special sanctions exemption given by the US regarding Chabahar port has expired in April and after this India is continuously communicating with the concerned countries on this subject.

When asked about the attack, Jaiswal said that the government has taken cognizance of the reports in this regard, but the Indian-run Shahid Beheshti Terminal is completely safe and there has been no damage to it.

Appeal not to target civilian infrastructure

The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that civilian infrastructure should not be targeted during any conflict or military action. India also stressed on reducing regional tensions and seeking diplomatic solutions.

Why is Chabahar port important for India?

Chabahar port located on the south-eastern coast of Iran is considered an important part of India’s strategic and trade policy. The port has two major terminals—Shahid Beheshti and Shahid Kalantari. Of these, Shahid Beheshti Terminal is operated by India.

Through this project, India gets direct trade access to Afghanistan and Central Asia without depending on the Pakistan route. This is the reason why it is considered an important basis of India’s regional connectivity strategy.

INSTC also plays an important role in the project

India and Iran are working towards making Chabahar port an important part of the 7,200 km long International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). The aim is to make freight transportation between India, Iran, Russia and Europe faster, cheaper and more effective through this corridor.

Experts believe that if this project is developed to its full potential, it will strengthen regional trade as well as India’s strategic and economic position.