If both ports are effectively integrated with land and rail infrastructure, Iran's role in transit transportation via the Shahid Rəcai Port and the influence of important centers such as the United Arab Emirates' Jebel Ali Port in the region could be significantly weakened.
The introduction of new routes could reshape traditional routes extending from the Persian Gulf to Central Asia, Europe, and China. This development is attracting the attention of Turkey, Iran, and Central Asian countries, increasing the likelihood of a shift toward alternative transit routes that offer advantages in terms of cost and time.
Gwadar Port: The Heart of the China-Pakistan Corridor
Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Pakistan's Balochistan Province, Gwadar Port is being developed as a strategic hub under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). With significant Chinese investments, port infrastructure, highways, railways, and free trade zones are being rapidly constructed. Gwadar's proximity to the Strait of Hormuz forms the foundation of China's goal of securing direct and safe access to warm seas.
The port is expected to become a major logistics hub for the Asian, Middle Eastern, and African markets in the long term. At the same time, it is seen as a direct competitor to the Chabahar Port in Iran and the Jebel Ali Port in the UAE.
Faw Port: Iraq's Vision for Development
The Faw Port, currently under construction in Iraq's Basra province, stands out as a strategic investment aimed at increasing the country's foreign trade capacity. Part of the Iraqi government's “Development Road” project, the port will create a corridor extending to Europe via Türkiye when completed, with rail and road connections.
The port project is being carried out in cooperation with South Korean and Chinese companies. Upon completion of the project, Iraq's dependence on the ports of countries such as Kuwait and the UAE is expected to decrease, and its potential to become a regional trade center is expected to increase.
The completion of these two major port projects could not only redefine Iran's current transit power but also the strategic role of traditional ports that have established dominance in the Persian Gulf. Developments indicate that trade competition among regional countries will intensify further.
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