December 23, 2019

The 19th Session of the India-Iran Joint Commission was held in Tehran on 22 December 2019. It was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister of India Dr. S. Jaishankar and the Foreign Minister of Iran Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif.

During the Joint Commission Meeting the two Ministers reviewed and positively assessed progress in bilateral cooperation, including connectivity, trade and commerce, cultural and people-to-people contacts. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

They expressed satisfaction at the progress achieved in operationalization of the Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar and recognized that it has a potential to act as a gateway between the Indian subcontinent, Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia and Europe. They welcomed the utilization of the port for exports from Afghanistan and discussed ways to promote it for enhancing wider regional connectivity for trade and transit.

Both sides reiterated support for strengthening bilateral trade and commerce. In this context it was agreed to hold early meeting of the Joint Working Group on Trade and to finalize Preferential Trade Agreement, Bilateral Investment Treaty, and promote cooperation in customs matters.

It was agreed to take humanitarian approach in dealing with issues related to fishermen and sea-fearers.

Both sides shared concerns at the grave threat posed by terrorism and called for immediate end to all support to terror sanctuaries. They agreed that State aid, abetment and support to terrorism should be condemned.

Both sides expressed support for efforts to maintain peace, security and stability in the region.

It was agreed to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the bilateral Treaty of Friendship in 2020. In this context, both sides would promote exchanges between the Parliamentarians, organize cultural festivals, promote people-to-people contact and youth exchanges.

During his visit, External Affairs Minister called on the President of Iran, H.E. Dr. Hassan Rouhani today and also met Secretary, Supreme National Security Council, H.E. Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani and Minister for Roads and Urban Development, H.E. Mohammad Eslami.

Tehran
December 23, 2019