Tehran: The first scheduled freight train from Russia has arrived at Iran’s Aprin dry port, marking a significant milestone in enhancing trade relations between the two nations. This event launches regular train operations connecting Iran, Russia, and Central Asian neighbors, showcasing a robust regional trade network.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the train comprised 62 forty-foot containers carrying paper, pulp, and related products destined for Iran and Iraq. It embarked on its journey 900 kilometers north of Moscow, traveling through Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. The train entered Iran via the Incheboron border crossing and reached Aprin dry port in 12 days, highlighting the efficiency of the new transit route.

The operation of this large-scale freight train necessitated meticulous coordination among railway authorities, customs offices, rail forwarders, and cargo owners along its route. Officials have praised this development as a crucial achievement for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), underscoring Iran’s pivotal role in regional logistics and transit.

Morteza Jafari, deputy for commerce and operations at the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, shared insights with IRNA during the event, noting that since June, when the first train from China arrived at Aprin dry port, 30 trains have successfully reached the facility. Jafari emphasized ongoing efforts to expand operations, especially for countries lacking direct rail access to Iran, where cargo will be delivered by truck.

Jafari stated, “Through coordination with other regional and CIS countries, we are working to make Iran a hub for exports, imports, and transit among neighboring states.”