New Delhi
Iran, which is facing the brunt of American sanctions, has appealed to India to improve its relations and increase cooperation. Iranian officials have sought resumption of crude oil purchases from India and relief in granting visas to Iranian citizens. Iran says that these steps will further strengthen the friendship and economic relations between the two countries. But does Iran have any intention behind this? Let us know.
The main reason behind Iran’s request is American sanctions, due to which there is a lot of pressure on its economy. In 2019, India had stopped purchasing crude oil from Iran under American pressure. However, now Iran wants India to once again find a way to buy oil. The Iranian official clearly said that India and Iran will have to find a solution to this issue together.
Iran also has a special eye on Chabahar port. This port is outside the scope of US sanctions and India has invested heavily in its development. The Iranian official said India has shown interest in cooperation in the petrochemical industries around Chabahar. This port can be an important means of strengthening trade and economic relations for both the countries.
The Iranian official also said that the sanctions imposed on Russia and Iran are separate, and that India continued to buy oil from Russia. In such a situation, Iran is hoping that India will find a similar way for it too. Iran also indicated that America’s stance may soften towards Iran due to China’s growing influence and changes in global politics. In such a situation, this may be an opportunity for India to bring its relations with Iran back on track.
Iran’s importance for India is not limited to oil only. Chabahar port provides a direct link to India with Afghanistan and Central Asia. Iran has made it clear that it does not want to create any kind of difficulty for India, but wants to take mutual cooperation to new heights. In such a situation, it remains to be seen whether India does crude oil deal with its Chabahar friend or not.
