Iran and Turkey have agreed to start building a new Iran Turkey Rail line. Moreover, the project will cost about $1.6 billion and cover 200 kilometers. It will connect Marand in Iran to Cheshmeh Soraya near Turkey’s Aralik border.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the rail will become a key trade route between Asia and Europe. In addition, he added that both countries agreed to start construction quickly. Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan joined Araghchi in Tehran to announce the project.
Iran’s Transport Minister Farzaneh Sadegh said the rail will turn the southern Silk Road into a full rail corridor. This means it will allow faster and cheaper transport of all types of cargo. She also noted that the line will have minimal stops along the route.
The Silk Road historically linked East Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. However, maritime trade now dominates. Nevertheless, rail still plays a key role in regional connections. Iran wants to strengthen trade and transport links with neighbors so that it can boost its economy.
Construction is expected to take three to four years, according to officials. Once completed, the Iran Turkey Rail will create a smooth corridor connecting Europe to Asia. As a result, it will reduce costs and travel time for goods transported between the regions.
This project shows growing cooperation between Iran and Turkey in infrastructure and trade. Furthermore, both countries see the rail as an important step in expanding regional trade networks. In addition, the Iran Turkey Rail project may encourage future investments in transport and logistics.
Experts say the line could make Iran a central hub for cargo moving between Asia and Europe. The corridor will support faster movement of goods, including industrial materials and consumer products. Overall, the rail is expected to bring economic benefits and strengthen trade ties in the region.
The Iran Turkey Rail project represents a major step for both countries. Moreover, it shows their commitment to creating a reliable and efficient trade corridor. Therefore, the project could reshape regional trade and strengthen the economic relationship between Iran and Turkey.