Dr. Arvind Gupta observed that the opportunities for exploring new avenues of bilateral cooperation far outweigh the differences between India and Iran. Iran’s geographical position demands that India works with it to establish effective transportation links and not miss the opportunity to participate in the Chahbahar project. He also commended the MEA’s effort to take the relationship forward. On the issue of Pakistan’s role in Afghanistan, Dr. Gupta urged caution and emphasised that one must look at it with circumspection, given the history of its negative influence in the country.

He also reiterated the suggestion to set up an eminent persons group from both sides, who can meet frequently, exchange ideas, come up with suggestions and make assessments of India-Iran relationship. He welcomed the idea of organising more conferences and undertaking joint research projects and hoped that the stage is now set for the next i.e. the 10th IDSA-IPIS Dialogue in Tehran.