Modi inks 12 pact with Iran: Rouhani calls it Day of Chabahar

Trehan: India and Iran have signed 12 key agreements including the development of Chabahar port that will provide trade connectivity to both the nations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani after signing the pacts between two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “The bilateral agreement to develop the Chabahar port and related infrastructure is an important milestone.”

"The outcomes and agreements signed today open a new chapter in our strategic partnership," he added.

The development of Chabahar port is seen as India's counter to the development of the deep-sea port of Gwadar, in Balochistan in Pakistan that opens into the Arabian Sea, close to the Strait of Hormuz, and will allow China access to the Indian Ocean.

Whether in Kabul, Delhi or Tehran, #IndiaAfghan friend'p is continuously strengthened. PM w/ President @ashrafghani pic.twitter.com/vhS8t5hZfm

— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) May 23, 2016

Over the Chabahar port pact, the Iranian President Rouhani said, “Bahar means 'spring' and I hope this port means spring for all of us.”

President Rouhani added, “Today will henceforth be called the Day of Chabahar.”