Iranian president plans closer transport, energy ties with Azerbaijan

Iran is implementing several infrastructure projects aimed at developing the International North-South Transport Corridor and plans to deepen cooperation with Azerbaijan in this field, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in an interview with AzTV ahead of his visit to Baku.

"We are constructing and restoring roads, including railways. These links will strengthen trade ties between Iran and Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan can also serve as a bridge for freight transport between Iran and Russia, while benefiting from Iran’s access to the Persian Gulf for transit operations," Pezeshkian noted.

He emphasized that Iran is fulfilling its commitments on infrastructure development and plans to discuss project implementation and further facilitation with the Azerbaijani president.

Pezeshkian also highlighted Iran’s interest in cooperation in "green energy," including hydropower, solar, and wind energy.

He expressed readiness to expand collaboration with Azerbaijan in industry, trade, investment, healthcare, education, culture, and sports.

The Iranian president recalled the ongoing joint project to build a 55-kilometer corridor linking mainland Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave through Iranian territory.

"I hope this route will ensure secure and reliable connectivity between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan and strengthen transport links between our countries," he said.

Pezeshkian stressed that Iran supports efforts to normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia based on respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty.

N.Tebrizli