Azerbaijan, Iran focus on Araz Corridor project, expanding economic ties PHOTO

Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev met with Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, to discuss economic cooperation and regional security.

According to the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers, the meeting took place as part of Mustafayev’s visit to Tehran, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Mustafayev congratulated Larijani on his appointment and wished him success in his new role.

The two officials also emphasised the importance of the North–South and East–West transport corridors, including the Araz Corridor project between Azerbaijan and Iran, along with other joint initiatives.

During his visit, Mustafayev also met with Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh. At the session of the Azerbaijan-Iran Joint Economic Commission in Tehran, officials highlighted the importance of expanding bilateral economic and trade relations. Their discussions focused on cooperation within the North–South international transport corridor, accelerating infrastructure projects, addressing customs and logistics challenges, and continuing preferential trade agreements.

Minister Sadegh noted that economic ties have strengthened following Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Azerbaijan. She added that the Kalaleh–Aghband bridge is expected to open by the upcoming Novruz holiday, and work is underway to expand the Kalaleh–Julfa road. The minister emphasised that, based on existing agreements, annual trade turnover could increase from $650 million to $1 billion.

The Azerbaijani deputy premier highlighted progress in removing banking restrictions and plans to increase flights between Baku–Tehran and Baku–Tabriz, noting significant potential for cooperation in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and trade sectors. He highlighted that bilateral trade reached $300 million in the first half of 2025, with opportunities for further growth.

Earlier, an Azerbaijani delegation headed by Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev was also hosted by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran.

By Khagan Isayev