The 18th session of the India-Iran Joint Commission was held in New Delhi on December 28, 2015. The session was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister of India (EAM) and H.E. Mr. Ali Tayebnia, Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance of the Islamic Republic of Iran. In the Joint Commission Meeting (JCM), EAM mentioned that India considers Iran as an important partner and expressed satisfaction at the growing bilateral interaction in diverse area. She underlined the efforts underway to enhance bilateral economic cooperation in energy, infrastructure – including shipping, ports and railways – and trade and commerce.

The Minister stressed that connectivity afforded by Indian participation in Chahbahar Port will facilitate linking Afghanistan and Central Asia with India. The Iranian side suggested participation of India’s public and private sectors in development of Chahbahar Port and Chahbahar Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and in setting up industrial units in the FTZ.

EAM emphasized the need for early completion of all necessary procedures for India’s participation in Farzad-B field and pointed out India’s desire to participate in other oil and gas explorations in Iran as well.