Civilisational Basis
- India and Iran share ancient civilisational links
- Cultural connections via language, literature, religion and trade
- Presence of Persian culture in India reflects deep historical continuity
Strategic Relevance Today
- India–Iran ties go beyond symbolism and are a strategic necessity
- As global order shifts towards multipolarity, both gain from cooperation
- Partnership contributes to regional stability in West Asia
Energy Security
- Iran’s vast oil and gas reserves make it a natural partner
- India’s growing economy requires diversified and secure energy sources
- Energy remains a core pillar of the relationship
Connectivity and Trade
- Chabahar Port – India’s gateway to Central Asia
- International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
- Links India to Russia and Europe via Iran
- ~40% shorter and ~30% cheaper than the Suez route
- Enhances India’s Eurasian trade access
Security and Technology Cooperation
- Shared concerns over terrorism and extremism
- Need for intelligence cooperation
- Scope for collaboration in
- IT and knowledge industries (India’s strength)
- Nanotechnology and medical sciences (Iran’s strength)
Challenges and Way Forward
- Relations affected by third-party pressures and sanctions
- Need for
- Local-currency trade mechanisms
- Diversification beyond oil
- Long-term strategic autonomy
