In a somber turn of events, Bharat grieves the untimely demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash. Their passing came shortly after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed heartfelt gratitude for their pivotal roles in finalizing the Chabahar Port agreement between New Delhi and Tehran.
Addressing first-time voters at the Delhi Tamil Association School, Jaishankar acknowledged the longstanding efforts spanning two decades to secure this agreement. He credited the late Iranian leaders for their keen interest and proactive initiatives in pushing the project forward, enabling the realization of a long-term agreement that had been elusive for years.
Delighted to interact with the next generation at the Delhi Tamil Education Association school today.
Impressed by the curiosity and interest in Indian foreign policy. Confident about the prospects of Bharat in the Amritkaal. pic.twitter.com/uX5arhAILm
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 20, 2024
The Chabahar Port agreement holds immense significance for Bharat’s strategic interests, particularly in bolstering regional connectivity and trade with Afghanistan. The port, situated in Iran, serves as a crucial transit point facilitating trade routes bypassing Pakistan, thus enhancing Bharat’s access to Central Asia and beyond.
The solemnity of the occasion prompted Bharat to declare a day of state mourning on Tuesday, May 21, honoring the memory of the departed dignitaries. As a mark of respect, the national flag will fly at half-mast across the country, and official engagements will be suspended for the day.
Jaishankar further underscored the broader implications of the Chabahar project, emphasizing its role in global connectivity corridors.
The agreement not only strengthens ties between Bharat and Iran but also opens avenues for enhanced connectivity stretching from Gujarat and Maharashtra to northern Europe, with potential links to Southern Europe via Saudi Arabia and Myanmar.
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Beyond geopolitical ramifications, the Chabahar Port signifies a paradigm shift in Bharat’s approach to education and skill development. Jaishankar highlighted the transformative impact of the New Education Policy, which prioritizes practical learning and equipping students with relevant skills for the job market.
The signing of the Long-Term Bilateral Contract on Chabahar Port Operation marks a significant milestone in Indo-Iranian relations.
The agreement between Indian Ports Global Limited and the Port & Maritime Organisation of Iran paves the way for the operation of Shahid-Behesti terminal within the Chabahar Port Development Project for a duration of ten years.
As Bharat mourns the loss of visionary leaders and commemorates their contributions to bilateral cooperation, the Chabahar Port agreement stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between India and Iran, poised to redefine regional connectivity and trade dynamics in the years to come.
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