What happened?
On May 18, 2025, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held a phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly the expedited development of the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). Doval emphasized Iran’s constructive role in regional affairs and expressed India’s commitment to advancing these strategic infrastructure projects. Ahmadian affirmed the importance of swiftly implementing these initiatives to bolster regional connectivity and stability.
Why it matters to India
The Chabahar Port, located in Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province, serves as a critical gateway for India to access Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Amid recent India-Pakistan tensions, including Operation Sindoor, strengthening the Chabahar project enhances India’s strategic and economic interests in the region. The INSTC further facilitates trade between India, Iran, and other countries in Eurasia, reinforcing India’s role in regional connectivity and economic integration.