Impacts of the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi on Chabahar project

Source: The post the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi will impact the Chabahar project has been created, based on the article “Chabahar port project: It’ll test our diplomacy” published in “Live mints” on 22nd May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-international relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Context: The article discusses the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and its impact on India’s strategic plans for the Chabahar port. It highlights the renewed India-Iran agreement, potential challenges from US sanctions, and the geopolitical competition with Pakistan and China. Impacts of the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi on Chabahar project

For detailed information on Chabahar Port Agreement read this article here

What is the importance of the Chabahar Port for India?

Strategic Location: Chabahar Port is strategically located on the southern tip of Iran’s Sistan Baluchistan province, close to Pakistan. This positioning is crucial for India’s access to international markets through Iran.

Economic Investment: India has renewed a 10-year agreement to develop and operate Chabahar, committing $370 million to upgrade the port facilities.

Geopolitical Balance: Renewing the deal with Iran helps India balance its geopolitical stance, given its relationships with other countries like Israel and amid regional tensions.

Trade Routes: The port is intended to play a central role in enhancing India’s logistical chains and trade routes, particularly the India-Middle-East-Europe Economic Corridor, providing a strategic route to Europe via the planned North-South Transport Corridor.

For more information read this article here

How will the death of Iran‘s President Ebrahim Raisi impact India?

Impact on Chabahar Agreement: Raisi’s interest facilitated the recent renewal of the Chabahar agreement. His demise might affect the continuity and enthusiasm for this joint initiative.

Election of a New Leader: An election within two months might bring a hardliner to power, influenced by Iran’s supreme leader, which could alter Iran’s foreign policy and its approach towards collaborative projects with India.

What are the geopolitical challenges?

US Sanctions: The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran, affecting international business. Although there have been waivers for Chabahar, recent noises about possible punitive sanctions could threaten the project.

Political Instability in Afghanistan: The Taliban’s takeover in 2021 disrupted the original plan involving Afghanistan in the Chabahar trade project. This instability jeopardizes regional collaborations and security.

Competition with Pakistan and China: India faces strategic challenges from the development of Pakistan’s Gwadar port by China. This rivalry is part of the broader Belt and Road Initiative, creating direct competition for Chabahar’s intended economic and strategic roles.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the potential impact of the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi on India’s strategic plans for the Chabahar port, considering factors such as the Chabahar Agreement renewal, geopolitical challenges, and the election of a new Iranian leader.