Iranian FM Calls India Major Partner, Urges Stronger Economic Ties
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hailed India as a major economic partner, emphasizing the need for the Indian companies’ closer partnership in Iran’s development projects.
In a meeting with India’s outgoing ambassador to Iran, held in Tehran on Saturday, Zarif expressed the hope that bilateral relations would increase in all spheres given the age-old relations between Tehran and New Delhi.
He also highlighted the grounds for India’s partnership in the Iranian projects, such as development of the southeastern port of Chabahar, noting that development of the port will promote cooperation among Iran, India and Afghanistan.
Dinkar Prakash Srivastava, for his part, highlighted the economic opportunities that Indian companies can take in Iran, as in the petrochemical industry.
Back in August 2013, deputy head of Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization said Tehran plans to develop Chabahar with or without the cooperation of India.
Earlier in May 2013, India had held discussions with Iran on the issue during a visit by Indian External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid.
Chabahar is a port city on the east coast of the Sea of Oman. It is strategically crucial as it gives access route to Afghanistan. Chabahar port, which is surrounded by a free trade zone, is vital particularly since Pakistan does not allow transit facility from India to Afghanistan.