External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the broader regional benefits of India's agreement with Iran regarding the strategic Chabahar port, urging against a narrow perspective amidst warnings from the United States of potential sanctions for engaging with Iran.

Speaking at a book launch event in Kolkata, Jaishankar stressed the importance of communication and persuasion in conveying the mutual advantages of the Chabahar port deal. He highlighted the past acknowledgment by the US of the port's wider significance.

The Chabahar port agreement, initiated in 2018, received exemption from certain US sanctions due to its crucial role in facilitating trade with Afghanistan. India committed to operating the port for a period of 10 years, with an investment of $250 million by India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) to enhance its infrastructure.

Situated on Iran's southern coast along the Gulf of Oman, the Chabahar port offers India an alternative route to transport goods to landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia via a road and rail project bypassing Pakistan.

Meanwhile, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti cautioned about the risks associated with dealing with Iran, citing its involvement in terrorism and conflicts, including recent tensions with Israel.