Which of the following correctly pairs the initiative with its primary objective from India's viewpoint?
- AOption (a)
Chabahar Port - Access Central Asia via Iran
- BOption (b)
BIMSTEC - Land connectivity to Europe
- COption (c)
QUAD - Strengthening oil diplomacy in Gulf
- DOption (d)
IMEC - Maritime security in South China Sea
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Correct answer
Chabahar Port - Access Central Asia via Iran
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Chabahar Port - Access Central Asia via Iran.
Key Points
- Chabahar Port is strategically located in southeastern Iran and acts as India's gateway to Central Asia and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.
- India has invested in the development of the Chabahar Port to enhance trade and economic connectivity in the region.
- It serves as a critical element of India’s “Connect Central Asia Policy,” which aims to strengthen ties with Central Asian countries.
- Chabahar Port facilitates the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), enabling efficient and cost-effective trade routes between India, Iran, and Eurasia.
- This port is crucial for India's energy diplomacy, as it provides access to resources from Central Asia and improves regional geopolitical influence.
Additional Information
- International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
- A 7,200 km long multimodal transportation network connecting India, Iran, Russia, and Central Asia.
- Aims to reduce transit costs and delivery time compared to conventional trade routes.
- Key strategic initiative to boost India’s trade and connectivity within the Eurasian region.
- Geopolitical Significance of Chabahar Port
- Chabahar provides India a foothold in Iran, enhancing its strategic and economic presence in the region.
- The port counters China’s Belt and Road Initiative by offering an alternative trade route.
- It strengthens India-Afghanistan connectivity, especially for humanitarian aid and trade.
- India’s Connect Central Asia Policy
- Launched in 2012 to deepen engagement with Central Asian nations.
- Focuses on energy security, trade, cultural ties, and regional connectivity.
- Chabahar Port is a key infrastructure development under this policy.
- India-Iran Relations in Context of Chabahar
- India and Iran signed agreements for port development and strategic cooperation in 2016.
- Iran’s Chabahar Port complements India’s foreign policy objectives for regional stability and connectivity.
- Sanctions on Iran have posed challenges but efforts to mitigate them are ongoing.