WEB DESK
The National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited Iran at the invitation of his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani. Doval discussed economic, political and security ties between Iran and India. The visit was significant as it comes ahead of Iran’s formal entry into the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which India is hosting on 3rd-4th July.
During the visit, Doval met Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian and the President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi. According to Ashok Sajjanhar, this meeting was a singular honor, as NSAs or Secretaries of National Security Council visiting different countries are not usually given the opportunity to call on the head of state or head of government. The meeting underscores the fact that Iran is interested in strengthening ties and relations with India in areas including, political, strategic, security, and economy.
Iran is an important partner of India, and the two countries have historically strong and vibrant relations. Although Iran used to be a significant supplier of crude oil to India, India now has negligible imports due to US sanctions. However, India and Iran are exploring other opportunities to expand their trade relations. Former Diplomat Sajjanhar points that the two countries have been working on the International North-South Transport Corridor and have suggested that the Chabahar port should also be brought onboard. Chabahar is the gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia and the development of the port would aid to better connectivity.
Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi hinted that strengthening of bilateral cooperation between Iran and India can have a constructive impact on resolving regional issues, such as the Afghanistan issue. The Former Diplomat explained that India and Iran can work together to enhance regional security and stability by continuing their cooperation on the development of Chabahar.
Also, there are strong connections between people, music, art and culture of the two nations. Hence, it is significant if the connections can be leveraged to explore more opportunities between the two countries.