President: Iran to complete Rasht–Astara railway deal by March 2026

Iranian authorities have successfully purchased more than 100 kilometres of the 160-kilometre Rasht–Astara railway section, a key corridor linking Iran and Azerbaijan, with plans to finalize the acquisition by March 2026.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian made the announcement during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the International Forum for Peace and Trust in Ashgabat, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“Regarding the Astara–Rasht route, I want to inform you that we have already acquired 100 km; everything is completed. It may even be 110 km, and by the end of the year we will finalize everything,” Pezeshkian said, clarifying that he referred to the solar calendar year, which concludes in March.

The acquisition of this strategic railway segment is part of Iran’s broader efforts to enhance regional connectivity and strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries, including Azerbaijan. The Rasht–Astara line is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade and transport between the Caspian region and the Iranian interior.

By Vafa Guliyeva