Iran has urged for increased railway cooperation among SCO member states, emphasizing the need for improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Key proposals include tariff simplification and the establishment of an expert group to address rail transport challenges. Highlighting Iran’s strategic location, the focus is on enhancing the North-South Intercontinental Corridor and completing the Rasht-Astara railway to facilitate international trade.

Iran has advocated for enhanced railway collaboration among the member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to foster regional connectivity and economic advancement. This appeal was articulated by Jabbar-Ali Zakeri, the CEO of the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, during the 5th gathering of SCO railway officials held in Moscow. Zakeri proposed a trilateral meeting between Iran and Russia aimed at simplifying tariffs and improving the efficiency of freight transport.

In his address, Zakeri further recommended the establishment of an expert working group focused on addressing border-related challenges, identifying underutilised railway routes, and developing a financial framework to attract investment for new rail infrastructure projects. He underscored Iran’s strategic geographical position as a pivotal transit corridor that connects East and West Asia, reiterating the nation’s commitment to enhancing both bilateral and multilateral partnerships within the SCO framework.

Zakeri emphasized the significance of the east-west and north-south transit routes traversing Iran, which link substantial markets throughout Asia and Europe. A critical component of this strategy involves the North-South Intercontinental Corridor, a significant global rail transport initiative, as reported by Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS. The completion of the Rasht-Astara railway in northern Iran represents an essential link within this corridor, facilitating the overarching vision for regional connectivity.

To expedite construction, high-level negotiations between Iran and Russia are currently in progress, aimed at significantly enhancing regional connectivity and international trade facilitation. Iran’s call for increased railway cooperation harmonizes with the SCO’s wider objectives of promoting infrastructure development and fostering economic integration among its member nations.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is an intergovernmental organization aimed at promoting regional cooperation in various sectors, including economic, political, and military collaboration among its members. With a focus on enhancing connectivity and trade, the SCO has emphasized the importance of transportation infrastructure. Rail development is a crucial component of this initiative, especially for countries like Iran that are strategically positioned as transit corridors linking significant markets in Asia and Europe. The North-South Intercontinental Corridor exemplifies the significant rail projects being pursued to bolster trade and economic links among member states.

In conclusion, Iran’s proposal for enhanced railway cooperation within the SCO framework underscores the country’s pivotal role as a transit hub between major global markets. The emphasis on improving freight transport efficiency, addressing border issues, and investing in new infrastructure aligns with the broader goals of the SCO to foster economic integration among its member states. Through high-level negotiations and collaborative efforts, Iran aims to accelerate regional connectivity and international trade growth.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com

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