Fri Jan 31 16:51:20 UTC 2025: ## India Pushes Ahead with Ambitious IMEC Project Despite Regional Instability
**New Delhi, January 31, 2025** – India is actively pursuing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project, despite ongoing instability in the Middle East, particularly the recent Israel-Gaza conflict. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to the UAE, and planned trips to Oman and engagements with other nations, underscore India’s commitment to the long-term initiative.
The IMEC, launched last year, envisions a trade route connecting India to Europe via the Middle East, encompassing shipping, road, and rail networks. While the project stalled following the October 2023 conflict, the recent ceasefire has renewed hopes for its revival. India is engaging with all stakeholders, including Greece, Egypt, France, and the US, to advance the project.
Discussions with Greece, whose Prime Minister has championed IMEC as a key element of the India-Greece Strategic Partnership, are expected to advance the project further. Egypt, initially hesitant due to perceived competition with the Suez Canal, is now reportedly showing greater willingness to collaborate.
Although concerns remain about the ongoing conflict and the lack of commitment from Israel towards a two-state solution, Indian officials maintain a positive outlook, emphasizing the IMEC’s long-term strategic importance. They highlight the continued infrastructure development and bilateral discussions as evidence of commitment. While a full resumption of IMEC activities hinges on a stable and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, India is committed to keeping the project on the agenda and engaging with all parties involved.
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