Aghband Bridge to open new trade routes between Azerbaijan, Iran by 2026

Azerbaijan’s Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev and Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh have jointly inspected the ongoing construction of the Aghband Bridge and the Horadiz-Aghband railway, key infrastructure projects that aim to enhance connectivity between the two countries.

During the visit, the two officials discussed the progress of the projects and reviewed the plans for the commissioning of the Aghband Bridge, which is scheduled for early 2026, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The bridge, which will span the border between Azerbaijan and Iran, is seen as a significant development in the region, expected to improve trade and transport links between the two countries.

Both Mustafayev and Sadegh emphasized the importance of completing the bridge by the end of this year, with an agreement reached to ensure that the bridge is ready for its official opening by November. The officials also agreed on a set of measures to enable the temporary operation of the border terminal in Iran, with the aim of making it fully functional by 2026.

In addition, the officials outlined plans to restore the movement of both freight and passenger vehicles between Azerbaijan and Iran by the end of 2025. This restoration is expected to significantly boost cross-border trade and enhance bilateral economic relations.

The Aghband Bridge and Horadiz-Aghband railway project are part of a broader initiative to strengthen transportation infrastructure and foster greater cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran. Once completed, the bridge will be a vital link in facilitating smoother and more efficient travel and trade between the two nations.

By Vafa Guliyeva