India ,U.S 

India signs a decade-long agreement with Iran to operate the Chabahar Port, bolstering regional trade despite US sanctions warnings. The deal underscores India's commitment to enhancing connectivity and economic cooperation in the region.

India recently inked a significant deal with Iran to operate the Chabahar Port for the next decade, marking a pivotal milestone in their bilateral relations. The agreement, signed between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Iran's Port & Maritime Organisation (PMO), solidifies India's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and trade routes.

The Chabahar Port, situated in Iran, holds strategic importance as a crucial transit point for trade between India, Afghanistan, and Central Asian nations. Over the years, India has actively invested in the port's infrastructure to facilitate smoother movement of goods and strengthen economic ties with its neighboring countries.

Under the terms of the agreement, IPGL will invest around USD 120 million in equipping and operating the port during the ten-year period. Additionally, India has extended a credit line of USD 250 million for collaborative projects aimed at improving Chabahar's infrastructure further.

Despite the positive momentum generated by this partnership, the United States has cautioned against engaging in business ventures with Iran due to ongoing sanctions. Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, emphasized the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with such dealings.

While reaffirming the US stance on maintaining sanctions against Iran, Patel acknowledged India's prerogative in determining its foreign policy goals and bilateral relationships. He underscored the need for entities considering business deals with Iran to weigh the potential consequences of violating existing sanctions.

India's decision to proceed with the Chabahar Port agreement reflects its commitment to regional development and economic cooperation, despite external pressures. By enhancing connectivity through projects like Chabahar, India aims to foster trade relations and promote stability in the region.

The long-term lease agreement not only strengthens the partnership between India and Iran but also instills confidence among traders and stakeholders in the viability of Chabahar as a key trade route. As India continues to invest in infrastructure and forge alliances, the Chabahar Port project stands as a testament to its dedication to fostering inclusive growth and connectivity in the region.

In conclusion, the signing of the Chabahar Port agreement signifies a significant step forward in India's pursuit of enhancing regional connectivity and trade. While challenges persist, the enduring partnership between India and Iran underscores the potential for mutually beneficial collaborations despite external pressures.