Daily Times

The presence of Pakistan’s Minister for Maritime Affairs Hasil Bizenjo at the ceremony where the first phase of Chabahar Port was inaugurated by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani holds a great deal of significance. It was indeed a clear message by Iran that it is not ready to undermine its relations with Pakistan, despite the ongoing collaborations with India.

Iran reportedly requested Pakistan days before the inaugural event to send a minister-level delegation for the ceremony. The Iranian authorities did not just send a formal invitation but followed up on it and ensured that Pakistan’s representatives attend the ceremony.

Some analysts had feared Pak-Iran ties would be affected in the wake of Pakistan’s participation in the Saudi-led military alliance ‘against terror’, but Pakistani officials have reportedly assured Iran that the country would not become a part of any venture that singles out the western neighbour. Perhaps that is why Iranian government also felt the need to make it clear that the country is not up to something that would affect Pak-Iran ties. This move was important because a hype was created by hawkish elements in Indian media about Iran singling out Pakistan. But Pakistan’s participation in the ceremony indicates that both countries hold no grudges against each other. Iran’s positive gesture in this regard should be duly welcomed by Pakistan and we should refrain from becoming a part of any regional plan to isolate Iran.

Meanwhile, authorities in Pakistan and India should take advantage of this opportunity and start considering how Chabahar and Gwadar ports can play a complementary role and enable the two neighbours to move beyond the shadows of their past and towards a future of economic cooperation.

President Rouhani has already stated that Gwadar and Chabahar Ports will complement each other. This is precisely how it should be.  *

Published in Daily Times, December 12^th 2017.