The government gave important information regarding the Chabahar Port project in Parliament on Thursday. The government said it is in constant communication with all stakeholders on the impact of recent changes in US sanctions/tariff policies on India’s participation.
What was the situation in the last five years?
Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge had asked the government whether an impact assessment of these changes has been done and how much money India has committed and spent for the development and operation of the project in the last five years.
In a written reply, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said that on May 13, 2024, the main contract was signed between India Ports Global Limited and Ports and Maritime Organization of Iran for the operation of Shahid Beheshti Terminal of Chabahar Port and supply of equipment. Under this, India has fulfilled its obligation of US $ 120 million for the purchase of port equipment. The last installment was transferred on 26 August 2025.
Kharge asked about which links related to the project?
Kharge also wanted to know whether there have been any diplomatic talks with the US or other partners regarding the project in the last two years and what contingency plans are being prepared to continue India’s participation.
Government of India actively engaged with all stakeholders
The minister said that on September 16, 2025, the US State Department had announced the withdrawal of the sanctions waiver given in 2018 for the reconstruction and economic development of Afghanistan under the Iran Freedom and Counter Proliferation Act, 2012, with effect from September 29, 2025. However, after discussions with the US, this exemption was extended till 26 April 2026 with conditions. The Minister said that the Government of India is actively engaged with all concerned to deal with the implications of these developments.
