Iran, Russia sign 2025 transit roadmap, annex on Rasht-Astara railway
In a major step toward strengthening transport ties, Iran and Russia signed the 2025 joint transit roadmap, as well as an annex of the supplementary studies of the Engineering Contract for the Rasht-Astara Railway Project, emphasizing the rapid completion of the railway.
Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadeq and Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation Vladimir Starovoyt signed the 2025 Joint Transport and Transit Cooperation Roadmap along with an annex on engineering studies for the Rasht-Astara railway project, marking a milestone in their strategic partnership.
Sadeq expressed optimism that the final construction contract for the railway would be signed by March 2025, once financial and technical details are finalized.
She confirmed that land acquisition for the Rasht-Astara railway is progressing rapidly, with completion expected within a year.
The minister welcomed the announcement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who authorized the start of engineering studies even before finalizing the land acquisition timeline.
“This decision by President Putin will significantly accelerate the Rasht-Astara railway project,” she noted.
This key project will enhance the International North-South Transport Corridor, boosting trade and connectivity across Eurasia.
Starovoyt, for his part, endorsed Iran’s proposals and suggested forming a Caspian transport consortium.
Iran’s Minister welcomed the idea, stating that Iran and Russia should take the lead in implementing this initiative.
She stated that regular meetings between the two nations are essential to accelerating the shared goals in completing the North-South Corridor.