Russia and Iran have recorded a 12.8% increase in road transport volumes in 2024, underscoring growing cooperation in the logistics and transport sector. The figures were revealed during a meeting between Russian Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin and Iranian Ambassador to Moscow Kazem Jalali, where the two sides discussed expanding connectivity through the North–South International Transport Corridor (ITC).
A key focus of the talks was the construction of the Rasht–Astara railway line, which will connect the rail networks of Azerbaijan and Iran.
“This project will connect the railways of Azerbaijan and Iran and will allow for the transport of at least 15 million tonnes of cargo annually,” the Russian Ministry of Transport stated.
Both countries are working to eliminate infrastructure bottlenecks, introduce competitive tariff conditions, and expand cargo flows along the ITC. The corridor’s western route relies on multimodal solutions with cargo transfers to trucks, while the eastern route already operates regular container trains.
In addition to road and rail projects, maritime transport cooperation is being strengthened. Officials discussed greater interaction between shipping and port companies, the development of multimodal transport at unified rates, and even the prospect of cruise operations across the Caspian Sea.
Air connectivity is also improving. Since August, Aeroflot has resumed direct flights between Moscow and Tehran, while Iran’s Mahan Air has been operating services linking Tehran with Moscow and Grozny.
The 12.8% rise in road transport highlights the broader trend of deepening Russia–Iran transport ties, with both sides aiming to position the North–South ITC as a competitive trade route linking Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and South Asia.
