TEHRAN, December 2025 — Iran and Turkey are set to significantly enhance railway connectivity between Asia and Europe with the agreement to construct a new railway line connecting Marand, Iran, to the Turkish border at Aralık. This strategic initiative aims to bolster trade routes and reshape regional logistics, reinforcing the modern Silk Road.

The ambitious project, valued at approximately USD 1.6 billion, will cover around 200 kilometers and is projected to be completed within three to four years. The announcement was made following talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, underscoring a commitment to economic cooperation and infrastructure development.

This new railway corridor is a key component of Iran's strategy to create a complete rail link for freight transport between China and Europe, aiming for uninterrupted transit. For Turkey, the project solidifies its position as a crucial interconnection point between Central Asia, the Middle East, and the European Union, enhancing its role as a Eurasian logistics hub.

The development aligns with China's Belt and Road Initiative, offering a pragmatic route for Tehran to consolidate its role in East-West corridors, despite previous challenges posed by international sanctions. This follows recent positive signs, such as Iran's first export train carrying cement clinker to Turkey in November.

Once completed, this 200-kilometer segment will fill a critical gap in China-Europe rail transport, providing a competitive alternative to maritime routes and increasing logistical resilience across Eurasia. The investment and planned increased rail traffic signal a new era of rail integration for the region.

Source: Iran and Turkey are building a new USD 1.6 billion railway corridor