Iranian President Hassan Rouhani

New Delhi: In a move to further strengthen the Indo-Iranian ties, visiting Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran is ready to share its oil, gas and energy resources with India. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, who is on a three-day tour to India, is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. Both leaders are likely to discuss issues related to bilateral ties.

Addressing a large congregation of Muslims at the historic Mecca Masjid in the old city Hyderabad, Dr. Rouhani said Iran is rich in oil, gas and energy. It is ready to share its energy resources for the development and progress of India and the Chabahar seaport will benefit Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Last year in December, Rouhani inaugurated an extension to the deep-water harbour Chabahar Port in south-eastern Iran in the first phase of the project signed with India in 2016. The $85 million port gives a transit route between India, Iran and Afghanistan bypassing Pakistan.

He also called upon Muslims to shed their differences and unite against the common enemy of Islam and urged Muslims to treat all human beings with love and affection in the true spirit of Islam. Iran will simplify its visa norms for Indians to improve ties between the two countries, according to the reports.

Rouhani also condemned US President Donald Trump for imposing travel ban on some countries and branding Muslims in wrong way.

Geopolitical analysts expect trade rivalry to intensify, with the Chinese-sponsored port at Gwadar in Pakistan being expanded less than 100 km away from Chabahar. A major geopolitical decision is Indians can invest in Iranian infrastructure and connectivity projects in rupees, making Iran the only country apart from Bhutan and Nepal to get this privilege. This helps Iran bypass sanctions and boost ties with India.