Modernization of transport infrastructure of the TRACECA countries as one of the main conditions for the development of routes in the region
This was noted on October 18, 2024, during the visit of Mr. Asset Assavbayev, Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA, to the Astara checkpoint located on the border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI).
During the visit, the Secretary General was informed that at the time of the visit to the checkpoint, there were about 600 vehicles waiting in line, as the actual capacity of the checkpoint is almost two times less.
As part of the exchange of views with the management of the border crossing point, representatives of the railways and the border service of Iran, current and problematic issues of the functioning of the Astara BCP, as well as the plans to improve the efficiency of its operation were discussed.
The Secretary General highlighted the importance of modernization of checkpoints’ transport infrastructure, having noted that the development of modern transport and logistics solutions is the key to strengthening regional economic cooperation.
Mr. Assavbayev, Secretary General was also introduced to the facilities under construction at the checkpoint, including the new terminal. The Manager General of the BCP Astara noted that these innovations are aimed at increasing the speed and quality of service, as well as ensuring a safer and more convenient border crossing. Cargo coming from Southwest Asia is delivered from the port of Bandar Abbas by Iranian container ships in 20 and 40-foot containers to Azerbaijan or follow by road or rail further to Kazakhstan and other countries.
In addition, Mr. Ramazanov, Director of the Astara terminal (MMC) noted that in 2024, it is expected that about 1 million tons of cargo will be transshipped at the Astara railway cargo terminal, which has been operating in Iran since 2018 under the management of Azerbaijan Railways (ADY).
The Astara BCP, equipped with the latest facilities and having the appropriate conditions for the effective application of customs procedures, plays a significant role not only in ensuring bilateral cargo transportation between Azerbaijan and Iran, but also, in general, is of great regional importance.
At the end of the visit, the Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA noted that the unhindered movement of people and goods across the border plays an important role in achieving the goals of the MLA and requires interstate coordination of the activities of state bodies.
For reference:
- On December 30, 2023, a road bridge and a modular checkpoint were opened on the Azerbaijani-Iranian state border in accordance with the “Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran” signed in 2021.
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Permanent Secretaritat of the IGC TRACECA