On Sunday 18 March 2018 the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS); launched its recent research paper entitled “Strategic Analysis of the Chabahar Port: Afghanistan – Iran – India Relations” Distinguished politicians and diplomats, academics, civil society members and media representatives attended the event.

Mr. Qadir Mutfi, one of the authors of the paper, presented some of the report’s key findings. According to him “Chabahar port is a milestone in the integration of Afghanistan into regional and global trade. In order to derive benefit from these agreements, Afghanistan must be prepared to capitalize on the opportunities created.”

H.E. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, CEO of the National Unity Government of Afghanistan, H.E. Mohammad Reza BahramiBahrami, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and H.E. Manpreet Vohra, Ambassador of India, each spoke about the significance of the Chabahar project for sealing strategic relationships between the three countries and the role it will play in promoting regional connectivity. “Afghanistan cannot rely on only one rout for transit and trade, so we need to work on exploring alternative ways such as Chabahar port.” Dr. Abdullah said. According to the Ambassador of Iran “such projects can promote cooperation and connectivity in this region and beyond. With regard to the Chabahar port we appreciate the inclusion of any country who is interested in multilateral cooperation.” Describing the Chabahar project as a unique platform, the Indian ambassador said that “the shortest, most cost effective route for us to connect to Central Asia is via Iran and Afghanistan; there is in fact no other replacement.”

The event concluded with an open question and answer session.