Uzbekistan Eyes Iran’s Chabahar Port as Gateway to Boost Trade with India

Uzbekistan plans to use the Chabahar Port in southeastern Iran as a strategic hub to expand trade with India.

The decision was reached during the first trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of Uzbekistan, Iran, and India, held in Tehran, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

The discussions centered on boosting economic cooperation and improving transport connectivity among the three countries. Chabahar Port was highlighted as a crucial node for streamlining and accelerating cargo shipments between India, Iran, and Uzbekistan, potentially reducing delivery times, cutting transportation costs, and opening new avenues for regional trade.

In addition to economic initiatives, the three countries agreed to establish a joint mechanism to combat terrorism and extremism, aiming to strengthen regional security and enhance the effectiveness of coordinated threat prevention.

The meeting also examined the prospects of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which connects India with Russia and other Eurasian countries. Officials noted that the corridor could serve as an alternative to traditional routes, offering faster and more cost-efficient transport.

Participants reaffirmed the importance of quickly implementing the decisions of the Chabahar Working Group, formed in Mumbai in November 2024, and pledged to intensify collaboration on joint projects in trade, logistics, and security.