Alexey Overchuk: Baku and Moscow discuss dev't of railway links along INSTC

Russia and Azerbaijan discuss the development of railway links within the framework of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), said Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, Report informs via PRIME-TASS.

The talks are centered on the development of railway connections, Overchuk stated.

"Naturally, the completion of the Rasht-Astara railway section passing through Iranian territory is always on the agenda. This will ensure connectivity in the region and provide rail access to Iran's Bandar Abbas ports, primarily to the Persian Gulf."

A discussion took place during a meeting between the presidents of Russia and Azerbaijan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kazakhstan.

Overchuk emphasized that practical conversations were held regarding the implementation of plans for creating the North-South transport corridor.

The deputy prime minister highlighted the progress already made, noting that the organization of transport through border crossing points on the Azerbaijan-Russia border has been implemented jointly with Azerbaijan.

He added, "On the Azerbaijani side, there is extensive infrastructure work underway. A modern large highway from the Russian border to Baku has been put into operation, connecting with the existing modern road from Baku to the Iranian border."

Overchuk also mentioned Iran's interest in the project, stating that the country is becoming a serious transit nation. He further noted that road freight traffic in the same direction is increasing significantly, with virtually no infrastructure limitations for its growth today.