India has reiterated its commitment to the Chabahar Port project, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirming that New Delhi remains in discussions with key stakeholders to secure a sustainable way forward.

He made these remarks in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit.

FS Misri stressed that India’s engagement with the project has been long-standing, but external developments, particularly the ongoing conflict in West Asia, have impacted regional cooperation frameworks.

He explained that recent developments concerning the regulatory regime applicable to the port have created challenges. India is therefore in touch with stakeholders to ensure continuity of cooperation in a manner that benefits all parties.

Misri emphasised that the Chabahar Port remains a crucial element of regional connectivity and strategic engagement, and India is determined to find a sustainable solution despite shifting circumstances.

Beyond infrastructure ties, Misri shared details of the bilateral discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Pezeshkian. The Iranian leader expressed gratitude for India’s support for regional stability, noting that prolongation of the conflict benefits no one.

He highlighted India’s civilizational, cultural, and people-to-people ties with Iran, stressing that New Delhi has a role in supporting peace efforts. Misri conveyed that Prime Minister Modi has actively engaged with regional and global leaders since tensions escalated, adding India’s voice to initiatives aimed at ending the conflict.

The Foreign Secretary underscored India’s maritime security concerns, pointing to lethal attacks on merchant vessels in regional waters. He noted that some incidents have tragically claimed the lives of Indian seafarers. India has consistently raised its voice and registered concerns with all relevant parties, both within and beyond the region.

Misri affirmed that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar remains in continuous contact with regional counterparts to explore opportunities for peace.

On trade, Misri explained that current exchanges between India and Iran are conducted by private entities. These parties continue to navigate international trading and financial pressures, adapting to the complex environment shaped by sanctions and regional instability.

He noted that while government-to-government frameworks exist, the bulk of commercial activity is managed by private actors who must respond to global financial realities.

The high-level discussions took place against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in West Asia, which have disrupted regional stability, maritime logistics, and commercial navigation.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and senior delegates from Tehran were present at the bilateral meeting. Prime Minister Modi is currently on an official visit to Kyrgyzstan to attend the 26th SCO Summit and the opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, underscoring India’s active role in regional diplomacy and multilateral engagement.

India’s approach to Chabahar reflects its broader strategic priorities of maintaining connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan, and strengthening its role in the International North-South Transport Corridor.

The port remains a vital gateway for humanitarian supplies, trade, and energy access, and India’s determination to secure its future highlights the importance of maritime security and regional cooperation in its foreign policy.

ANI