India and Iran discussed the entire gamut of bilateral relations

India and Iran have reiterated their commitment to continue cooperation for development of the Shahid Behesti terminal of the Chabahar Port, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

The issue was discussed during the Foreign Office Consultations between the two countries in New Delhi.

The Iranian delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Ali Bagheri Kani while the Indian delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra.

"During the delegation level talks both sides discussed the entire gamut of bilateral relations including political, economic, cultural and consular engagement," the MEA said.

They also exchanged views on regional and international issues including Afghanistan. The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister briefed the Foreign Secretary on issues related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the MEA added.

During his India visit, Deputy Foreign Minister Kani also called on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Taking to Twitter, EAM Jaishankar said, "Pleased to receive Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs @Bagheri_Kani Discussed our bilateral cooperation, regional issues, and JCPOA."

The Shahid Behesti terminal at Chabahar port in Iran is India's first overseas port project and has the potential to become the gateway for Indian trade with Europe, Russia & CIS countries.

The Trilateral Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) to build the International Transport and Transit Corridor was signed by India, Iran, and Afghanistan during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Iran in May 2016.

India is participating in the development of the first phase of the Shahid Behesti Terminal, Chabahar Port in cooperation with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran.