Tehran - BORNA - The three sides issued a joint statement following the Baku meeting on Wednesday, expressing satisfaction with the progress of trilateral cooperation. The statement reaffirmed the strategic significance of the joint declarations signed by the presidents of Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan on August 8, 2016, and November 1, 2017, which aimed to enhance bilateral economic and trade relations, promote safe and reliable regional transport corridors, and strengthen energy cooperation for regional economic growth.
As reported by Azerbaijan’s Trend News Agency, the joint communiqué highlighted the importance of continuing efforts to expand transit capacity in the region and accelerating the implementation of projects designed to diversify transport connections. It also underscored the need for the simultaneous development of infrastructure along the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) across the territories of the three nations.
The parties agreed to take coordinated steps to increase cargo capacity along the INSTC route to 15 million tons, ensuring a continuous and growing flow of goods through the corridor.
The statement also announced the establishment of a joint working group tasked with preparing an action plan for the implementation of agreed measures within three months. Additionally, a special working group on road transportation—comprising representatives from customs, border, and transport authorities of the three countries—will be created.
The signing of a Trilateral Working Charter on Customs Cooperation aimed at promoting transit transportation among Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan was highly commended by the participants.
The three sides further emphasized the importance of completing the construction of the Rasht-Astara railway line and its related terminal, a key component of the INSTC, to fully unlock the corridor’s potential. They also highlighted the need to complete the Aghband–Khalafli highway bridge over the Aras River, as well as the construction of new border checkpoints, as essential steps to enhance trilateral connectivity.
The communiqué also called for simplifying cross-border transit procedures and advancing digitalization in customs, transport, and border operations.
During the discussions, the parties noted the progress of technical-level talks on connecting the national power grids of Azerbaijan, Iran, and Russia, and agreed to maintain consultations on this issue.
Moreover, the three countries agreed to conduct a joint field inspection of major infrastructure projects along the North-South Transport Corridor on October 14, 2025.
In conclusion, the statement reaffirmed the commitment of Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan to continue joint efforts aimed at deepening cooperation in transportation, energy, and customs.
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