Studying the impact of Makran coastal development on Iran-India relations

Introduction: The development of the Makran coast, as one of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s national megaprojects, has dimensions that extend far beyond a mere civil and economic plan, evolving into a decisive variable in regional geopolitical equations and Iran’s bilateral relations with emerging powers. Located on the coast of the Oman Sea and in proximity to major global shipping lanes, this region has historically served as a bridge between the Iranian plateau and the Indian Ocean. In the contemporary era, this position has gained heightened importance, becoming the focal point for maritime-oriented development programs. This research is formulated to explain and analyze the multifaceted impacts of this development on Iran-India relations. The central question is: How and through what mechanisms has the development of the Makran coast, with the strategic centrality of Chabahar Port, influenced the nature and level of economic, political, and security cooperation between Tehran and New Delhi in the 2019-2023 timeframe?
Materials and Methods: This study employs a descriptive–analytical method with a qualitative approach. The descriptive-analytical method was chosen as it allows for the complex phenomenon of Makran’s development and its effects on bilateral relations to be first accurately described, and then its deeper layers to be dissected through the analysis of causal relationships and influential variables. The qualitative approach enables the researcher to move beyond quantitative data to analyze the discourses, political intentions, and strategic interests of the actors involved. Data collection was conducted entirely through documentary and library-based methods. The sources used encompass a wide range of official documents (such as bilateral agreements between Iran and India and performance reports from the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development), strategic reports from research centers and chambers of commerce, peer-reviewed academic articles indexed in reputable databases, and strategic analyses published by regional and international think tanks. The data analysis process was based on qualitative content analysis. The theoretical framework is predicated upon a synthesis of three complementary theories: 1) Critical Geopolitics, to analyze the discourses and spatial representations that transform Makran’s development into a tool for exercising power and influence; 2) Regional Connectivism Theory, to explain the economic logic behind the development of transport corridors and Chabahar’s role as a logistics hub; and 3) Soft Balancing Theory, to understand the security and strategic dimensions of Iran-India cooperation as an indirect response to the growing influence of China and Pakistan in the region. This combined theoretical framework facilitates a comprehensive, multi-dimensional analysis of the subject.
Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that the Makran development, particularly Chabahar Port, has evolved into a “strategic anchor” in bilateral relations due to the convergence of geopolitical interests. From India’s perspective, the project is not only an alternative trade route to access Afghanistan and Central Asia but also an effective tool for balancing against China’s influence through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Gwadar Port. For Iran, the project presents an opportunity to mitigate the effects of international sanctions, diversify its economy, and solidify its role as a regional connectivity hub. However, significant challenges persist; economic sanctions, instability in attracting foreign investment, intense competition from Gwadar Port, and internal structural and administrative obstacles have hindered the progress of the projects.
Conclusion: It is concluded that the full strategic potential of the Makran coast requires adopting an integrated national strategy, an improved institutional environment for capital attraction, and the definition of sustainable cooperation mechanisms with key partners like India. The future path must focus on the smart management of geopolitical challenges and project diversification to transform Makran from a regional project into a national platform for Iran’s maritime-oriented economic leap