Russian Deputy PM Hails Iran’s Engineering Work on Rasht-Astara Railway

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk praised Iran’s “precise and committed” engineering work on the Rasht-Astara railway, calling it a key element in expanding regional transport links among Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday during a visit to Iran’s northern border city of Astara, Overchuk said the project was advancing with “technical accuracy and strong coordination.” He commended Iran’s efforts to develop its transport network and said recent trilateral meetings had reviewed “notable progress” on the joint railway initiative.

Overchuk added that road cooperation among the three countries was also improving, noting that infrastructure issues at border crossings – particularly those linking Russia and Azerbaijan – had been resolved and that crossings were now operating “actively and efficiently.”

He said trade and transport collaboration among the three nations had made “significant strides” and that momentum was expected to continue.

Referring to the free trade agreement between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union, Overchuk said trade among member countries had risen by 35% since the deal took effect, underscoring the need to expand infrastructure capacity to accommodate growing exchanges.

He concluded that the trilateral cooperation between Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan would ensure sustainable development and stronger economic integration across the region. - IRNA