Iran is pleased to see trade volume along the North-South transport corridor increasing year after year, Iran’s ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, said.
“The North-South logistics corridor deserves special attention,” the diplomat noted. “All Caspian nations are along this route. We are very glad to witness annual growth in cargo traffic through the corridor.”
Jalali described the Caspian Sea as a “living bridge” connecting countries in the region. He identified several key challenges the Caspian states face, including environmental protection, resource management, maritime transport, the security of communications, and—most importantly—keeping outside powers from intervening in the region.
“The entry of any foreign force into this region will not benefit any party,” the ambassador emphasized.
The multilateral agreement establishing the international North-South transport corridor was signed by Russia, India and Iran in 2000. Over time, the group has grown to include 14 participants. The project aims to channel freight from India, Iran and Persian Gulf nations through Russia to Europe. Compared to the sea route via the Suez Canal, the corridor cuts the distance by more than half, reducing both delivery times and costs. Today, the initiative links numerous transport systems across the participating countries.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on TASS materials