TEHRAN, November 2025 — In a significant development for regional connectivity, Iran and Turkey have announced plans to construct a new strategic rail link, aiming to bolster trade and transportation networks between Asia and Europe. This initiative underscores the growing importance of rail infrastructure in facilitating intercontinental commerce and strengthening geopolitical ties.

The agreement, announced by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, outlines the construction of the Marand–Cheshmeh Soraya railway. This approximately 200-kilometer line will extend towards Turkey’s Aralik border region. The project is estimated to cost $1.6 billion and is projected to take three to four years to complete.

This new rail line is poised to transform the southern Silk Road into a continuous all-rail corridor, facilitating fast and cost-effective cargo transport between China and Europe. The project is expected to significantly enhance trade efficiency, reduce transit times, and open new economic opportunities for both nations and the wider region.

Iranian Transport Minister Farzaneh Sadegh highlighted the project's potential to ensure "fast and cheap transport of all types of cargo with minimal stops." Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized the need to remove trade barriers and expressed optimism for the project's swift commencement. This development aligns with Iran's broader strategy to expand infrastructure and trade with neighboring countries amidst economic pressures.

The Iran-Turkey rail link represents a key component in the evolving landscape of global logistics and infrastructure development, echoing initiatives like China's Belt and Road. By enhancing critical East-West transit routes, the project signals a commitment to strengthening regional economic integration and modernizing trade corridors for the 21st century.

Source: The Sun Malaysia