It is good omen that Pakistan sent its representative to Iran to take part in the ceremony of first phase of Iranian Chabahar port. It was a high profile event as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani inaugurated the first phase of chabahar port.
Reportedly, Iran requested Pakistan to send a minister level delegation to attend the event. The Iranian ensured that Pakistan’s representatives attend the ceremony. It shows that despite the ongoing collaborations with India, Iran is very keen to not undermine its relations with neighbouring country Pakistan. Participation of Minister for Maritime Affairs Hasil Bizenjo in the event was enough to brush aside propaganda of Indian media claiming that Iran is singling out Pakistan.
Some analysts were of the view that both countries see each other with some suspicions. Tehran’s tilt towards New Delhi in recent times as India is investing in Chahbahar port and whole episode of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav were some factors causing concerns for Pakistan. On the other side, Iran expressed its reservations with Pakistan for becoming part of Saudi led military alliance, considering the harsh reality that Iran and Saudi Arabia are extreme rivals in the region.
High level reciprocal visits of Iranian and Pakistani delegations helped in gaining confidence and clearing the air of suspicion. Pakistan made it clear that it would not send its army to any other country to become part of any military adventure. Pakistan also assured Iran that the country would not become a part of any venture that singles out the western neighbour. Iran also assured Pakistan that its soil would never be used again Pakistan and Chahbahar port should not be considered as rival port of Gwadar. In fact Iranian President Rouhani has said that both ports should be portrayed as sister ports as working in collaboration can achieve regional connectivity in a better way. He has already stated that Gwadar and Chabahar Ports will complement each other.
Both countries should also work on the unfinished bilateral projects including the joint pipeline initiative. Solution of all the hurdles, including international sanctions on Iran, should be found in order to complete the gas pipeline project.
Considering no visible reasons to seek dstabalization of each other, both countries must keep working together to further enhance bilateral ties. Pakistan and Iran have much to gain through the expansion of ties. It is pleasing development that Pakistan participated in the vital event. It is also pleasing development that both neigbouring countries are interacting more often to strengthen bilateral relations.