National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held a significant phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, focusing on bolstering bilateral cooperation and addressing regional stability. The discussions centered around the development of Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), highlighting their strategic importance to both nations.

Doval emphasized Iran's constructive role in the region and expressed India's keen interest in expanding collaboration, particularly in the context of the Chabahar Port and INSTC projects. Ahmadian reciprocated, underscoring the deep-rooted historical and civilizational ties between Iran and India, and affirming the vast potential for political and economic cooperation. He stressed the necessity of swiftly implementing strategic projects, reiterating that bilateral cooperation serves the broader interests of regional peace and stability.

The Iranian readout of the conversation indicated that Ahmadian thanked India for its continued assistance and support. Both officials acknowledged that stronger ties between Tehran and New Delhi would not only benefit their respective national interests but also contribute significantly to regional security.

The conversation between Doval and Ahmadian took place against the backdrop of recent tensions between India and Pakistan. Iran had strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and offered to mediate to de-escalate the tensions between the two countries after India's targeting of terrorist camps in Pakistan and POK. However, India has maintained its long-standing policy of no third-party mediation on issues with Pakistan.

During the call, Operation Sindoor, India's response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, was also reportedly discussed.

The emphasis on Chabahar Port and the INSTC during the discussion underscores their importance in the India-Iran relationship. Chabahar Port is strategically located in Iran's Sistan-Balochistan province and provides India with access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. India has invested significantly in the port's development and has secured a 10-year deal to operate a container terminal at the Shahid Beheshti Terminal.

The INSTC is a multimodal transportation corridor designed to connect India, Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe. It involves a network of sea, rail, and road routes, facilitating the movement of freight and reducing transit times and costs. Both India and Iran view the INSTC as a crucial component of their economic partnership and a means to enhance regional connectivity.

This recent dialogue follows a series of high-level engagements between India and Iran. In January 2025, the 19th round of Foreign Office Consultations was held in New Delhi, where both sides discussed bilateral relations, including cooperation on Chabahar Port, agricultural collaborations, trade, and cultural exchanges. In May 2025, the Indian and Iranian foreign ministers convened in New Delhi for the 20th meeting of the India-Iran Joint Commission, focusing on economic collaboration, regional security, and the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Both nations continue to reaffirm their commitment to deepening cooperation in international organizations such as the United Nations, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), highlighting their shared vision for a stable and prosperous region.