Moscow: The practical implementation of the Rasht-Astara railway line project within the framework of the North-South international transport corridor is set to begin on April 1, 2026, as reported by Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilyov.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the parties involved have successfully resolved all contentious issues that had previously delayed the project's launch. Minister Tsivilyov highlighted the dual nature of the North-South corridor, stating that it serves as both an energy and a transport corridor. The construction of the Rasht-Astara railway line is integral to this corridor, and all previously outstanding issues, including land registration and obtaining benefits, have been addressed. Tsivilyov made these remarks during a meeting of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation between Russia and Iran. He further announced that a final agreement on the start of the project would be reached during a transport forum in Russia on April 1.

The minister commended the specialists involved in the project's preparation. He expressed gratitude for the teams' efforts, acknowledging the complexity of the project but affirming that all implementation issues have been resolved. Tsivilyov confidently stated that the implementation phase of this significant infrastructure project would commence as planned on April 1.

In 2023, Russia and Iran signed an agreement as part of the North-South project to jointly construct a 160-kilometer section of the Rasht-Astara road between Iran and Azerbaijan. This road will facilitate access to the ports of the Persian Gulf. The project is estimated to cost 1.6 billion euros, with Moscow and Tehran jointly financing the design, construction, and supply of goods and services.