Turkey and Iran strengthen transport links with new road, rail and air agreements

Monday, February 3, 2025

Turkey and Iran have taken significant steps to enhance transport connectivity [1], following high-level discussions between Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uralo?lu and Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development Ferzane Sad?k. The two nations have committed to strengthening road, rail, and air links, reinforcing their role as key transit hubs for regional trade and travel. The agreements, in line with Turkey's 2053 Transport and Logistics Master Plan and Iran's National Transport and Infrastructure Strategy, aim to simplify trade processes, expand rail freight capacity, and improve air connectivity.

Road Transport: Removing Barriers for Trade Efficiency

A primary focus of the discussions was road transportation, particularly reducing barriers that impact freight movement.

Both sides agreed to remove mutual taxation hurdles and implement practical solutions to improve cross-border efficiency.

These reforms align with Turkey's Customs and Trade Ministry (ticaret.gov.tr) initiatives to streamline trade logistics and enhance regional commerce. The agreement will facilitate smoother customs clearance and lower operational costs for logistics companies, reinforcing Turkey and Iran as critical trade corridors between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Railway Expansion: Increasing Freight and Passenger Services

Rail transport was another key area of collaboration. Both nations set a target of increasing railway freight capacity to 1 million tons annually, with measures to minimize delays at border crossings.

This initiative aligns with Iran's National Railway Development Plan, which emphasizes railway modernization to boost trade efficiency. A major highlight is the Van-Tehran passenger train, which will officially launch ticket sales on February 20. The service, expected to improve people-to-people connectivity, will provide an alternative, cost-effective travel route between the two countries.

Additionally, discussions covered the development of the ?e?mis?reyya-Dilucu railway corridor, a crucial transit route linking Turkey to Iran and beyond. The project is expected to enhance cargo transport along the Middle Corridor (Belt and Road Initiative), strengthening ties between Europe and Central Asia.

Aviation: Expanding Air Connectivity

Aviation cooperation was another priority, with talks centered on increasing flight capacity between Turkish Airlines and Iranian carriers. Both governments acknowledged the importance of greater coordination in airline services to improve passenger experiences and travel options.

These developments align with Turkey's Civil Aviation Authority goals of enhancing regional air mobility, facilitating business travel, and supporting the growing tourism industry between the two countries.

Strengthening Regional Trade and Connectivity

Minister Sad?k emphasized that Turkey serves as Iran's gateway to the West, just as Iran is Turkey's bridge to the East.

These transport agreements mark a strategic move to deepen economic ties, reflecting a mutual commitment to regional cooperation and logistics efficiency.

As Turkey and Iran continue to enhance their transport infrastructure, the latest developments pave the way for smoother trade routes, improved passenger travel, and stronger regional integration.

References

^ connectivity (www.travelandtourworld.com)