New York: Amidst the ongoing US-Iran tussle, Indian Prime Minister held a meeting with Iranian President, Hassan Rouhani, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 74th Session in New York.
Modi held discussions with the Iranian leader about the progress of Iran’s Chabahar Port being developed by India’s help.
An External Affairs Ministry statement said, “They (the leaders) especially mentioned operationalisation of Chabahar Port and noted its importance as gateway to and for the landlocked Afghanistan and the Central Asian region.”
The significance of Modi’s meeting with Iranian leadership comes during a time when Iran was displeased with India for stopping orders of oil from Iran since 2 May. The stoppage comes after US imposed sanctions on the Islamic country in connection with Iran’s nuclear program.
The Chabahar Port’s importance lies in the fact that it would help connect India, Afghanistan, and Iran with Central Asia without touching Pakistan. It is favourable for India’s interest which is facing a tough relation with Pakistan.
With US pressure mounting on Iran and not happy about India’s relation with Iran, Narendra Modi is carefully treading the diplomatic path between the two nations to keep both the nations happy.
So far, Modi’s diplomatic maneuvers has been successful and both the countries have favourable relations with India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the UNGA today.
