Chabahar Port: India's Strategic Gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia Amid US Sanctions

• India reaffirms its commitment to Iran's Chabahar Port, emphasizing its strategic, economic, and geopolitical importance despite looming US sanctions waiver expiry.
• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in discussions with the US to ensure the continuity of operations at Chabahar Port, with the current sanctions waiver expiring on April 26.
• Chabahar serves as India's only viable western maritime corridor, providing direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan's restrictive land routes.
• The port is crucial for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), linking India with Iran, Russia, and Europe, reducing transit times and costs.
• Geopolitically, Chabahar acts as a counterbalance to China-backed Gwadar Port in Pakistan, securing India's influence in regional maritime connectivity.

Why It Matters: India remains committed to Chabahar Port as a vital strategic and economic link, engaging the US on sanctions.