Washington pledges assistance for India‑Middle East‑Europe connectivity project

At a United Nations gathering, the American president reiterated that his government will actively support the India‑Middle East‑Europe economic corridor. He presented the initiative as a strategic alternative for moving energy supplies and commodities, reducing exposure to regional hostilities.

He cited recent attacks on merchant vessels and Iranian provocations as proof that the Middle East’s energy infrastructure must be diversified away from Iranian influence. The corridor, he said, offers a reliable alternative route.

The president also mentioned ongoing discussions about new pipelines and other mechanisms to export oil from the region. He described the corridor as part of a comprehensive strategy that includes naval security, stable energy deliveries, and diplomatic pressure to halt Iran’s nuclear program.

The project was first announced during the G‑20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023, where India, the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the European Union, France, Germany and Italy signed a framework agreement. The plan envisions sea links from India to Gulf states and rail‑shipping connections from the Gulf to Europe, promising faster trade, reduced transit times and stronger economic links across three continents.