Why is this important
Access to the port will give Uzbekistan access to the Indian Ocean regardless of routes through other countries, which will lower logistics costs and delivery times. It will enhance Uzbekistan’s role in international transport corridors, especially within the framework of the International North-South Transport Corridor.
It can boost the volume of trade between Uzbekistan and trade partners of India and Iran, and enhance the investment appeal of regional logistics projects.
What happened
- The meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of India, Iran, and Uzbekistan occurred on 9 September in Tehran.
- The parties agreed to encourage Uzbekistan to utilise the Chabahar port for trade with India.
- The discussion also covered cooperation in fighting terrorism and extremism.
- The potential for expanding interaction through INSTC — a route linking India, Iran, the Eurasian countries, and Russia — was considered.
Context
Chabahar port is Iran’s strategic point in the southeast, being the only port with access to the Indian Ocean. The construction of the Chabahar-Zayedan railway, a part of the port infrastructure, is underway; once completed, it will enable a more direct connection between the port, Iran’s internal railway network, and further access to Central Asia.
The INSTC (International North‐South Transport Corridor) is seen as an alternative to traditional routes through the Suez Canal, lowering logistics costs and transit time between India, Iran, Central Asia, and Russia. Uzbekistan’s involvement in these routes can also bolster its position as a transport and logistics hub and boost transit revenues.
