Baku: The 17th meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Trade and Humanitarian Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran was held in Baku. The meeting was co-chaired by Azerbaijan's Deputy Prime Minister, Shahin Mustafayev, and Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, alongside representatives from various organizations of both countries.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the meeting emphasized the historical, cultural, and religious ties between Azerbaijan and Iran, highlighting the foundation of their bilateral relations on friendship and good-neighborliness. The discussions covered trade, economic, transport, energy, water, and humanitarian issues, reflecting the political will of both countries' leaders.

Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev announced the completion of the Aghband-Kalala highway bridge construction. He indicated that the bridge would become fully operational following the completion of border and customs infrastructure, connecting the East Zangezur economic region with Nakhchivan via an efficient route. This project is part of a broader highway route linking the Persian Gulf and the Black Sea.

The meeting also addressed the East-West and North-South transport corridors, focusing on enhancing regional logistics and transit potential. Discussions included the construction of the Rasht-Astara railway line, a crucial component of the North-South Transport Corridor. The line is expected to increase cargo volumes and reduce delivery times once operational.

Further discussions reviewed the progress of joint projects aimed at expanding regional logistics and ensuring energy sustainability. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the co-chairs, outlining the outcomes of their discussions.