ISLAMABAD: The United States’ decision to reimpose sanctions on India’s Chabahar Port project in Iran has created a strategic opening for Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, the head of the Balochistan Economic Forum said.
Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, president of the forum, said Washington’s move goes beyond Iran policy and directly curtails India’s access to Afghanistan, Central Asia and Eurasia through Iran. He noted that Chabahar had been developed by India as an alternative route to bypass Pakistan and counterbalance China’s presence in Gwadar.
“By revoking the waiver that allowed Indian operations at Chabahar, the United States has dismantled this strategic pathway,” Popalzai said. “It signals that Pakistan’s role is becoming more critical in Washington’s recalibration of its West Asian and Afghan policies.”
He said the shift creates both risks and opportunities for Pakistan. With Chabahar constrained, Gwadar emerges as a viable hub for regional connectivity and trade, particularly for Central Asian and Eurasian markets. Gwadar’s integration into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative further enhances its position.
Popalzai urged the government to accelerate Gwadar’s operationalisation, complete supporting infrastructure and adopt policies that make the port a reliable alternative for regional and global partners.
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“In an era where global energy and trade routes are being redrawn, Gwadar can deliver strategic and economic dividends for Pakistan and beyond,” he said.
