India has received a six-month exemption from US sanctions for the Chabahar Port project in Iran, enabling the continuation of its operations and development. This key concession was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs, which also noted ongoing, productive discussions with the United States regarding a trade deal and broader strategic cooperation. The Chabahar Port is strategically vital for India, providing essential maritime access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing traditional overland routes through Pakistan.
The US exemption acknowledges the port’s critical role in fostering regional connectivity, driving trade, and supporting infrastructure development with landlocked countries. It also recognizes its contribution to international humanitarian efforts and the promotion of economic stability in the region, highlighting its geopolitical value for alternative trade corridors.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India is actively working towards a beneficial trade agreement with the US and that bilateral and strategic discussions are progressing well. He characterized the waiver as a pragmatic acknowledgment of India’s commitment to regional development.
In response to queries about recent US sanctions on Russian oil companies, Jaiswal stated that India is carefully studying their implications. He reiterated that India’s energy procurement policies are firmly rooted in safeguarding national interests and ensuring a steady, affordable supply of energy from various global sources to meet the nation’s growing demands.