Baku: The Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY), Rovshan Rustamov, held a meeting in Baku with the Head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, Jabbar Ali Zakeri, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation, as reported by ADY to APA-Economics.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the discussions focused on the development of the Astara Terminal and the expansion of trilateral relations between Azerbaijan, Russia, and Iran. The meeting underscored the significance of the North-South Corridor, a strategic route that bolsters Azerbaijan’s role as a crucial artery in connecting trade flows.

Rovshan Rustamov highlighted that the reconstruction of the Sumgayit-Yalama railway line, a vital segment of the North-South Corridor within Azerbaijan, is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Additionally, ADY plans to finalize the construction of the Astara Terminal in Iran by the first quarter of 2026.

Currently, 94% of the design work and approximately 82% of the construction and installation work for the Astara Terminal have been completed. Once operational next year, the terminal is anticipated to boost cargo volume and facilitate efficient operations on the North-South transport link.