Salmas: Turkey's consul general in Iran's West Azarbaijan Province has said Ankara welcomes plans to develop the Koozeh Rash border crossing in Salmas, describing stronger border and economic links as a driver of shared prosperity for Iran and Turkey.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, during a meeting with Salmas Governor Ali Alaei, Consul General Muslem Aygul expressed satisfaction with the current level of bilateral ties and stated that Turkey is ready to expand cooperation within existing laws and bilateral understandings. Aygul highlighted that upgrading border infrastructure and facilitating cross-border exchanges would help deepen economic interaction and contribute to sustainable growth on both sides of the frontier.

Alaei cited the two countries' long-standing historical and friendly relations and emphasized the strong political will to strengthen cooperation at multiple levels. He stressed the importance of reopening the Koozeh Rash-Gelincik crossing, noting that it could significantly boost trade, stimulate border commerce, improve regional infrastructure, and enhance livelihoods in neighboring communities.

The governor also underlined the need to make better use of shared border capacities, adding that targeted planning and constructive engagement could expand cooperation in economic, tourism, and cultural fields. The Koozeh Rash crossing in Salmas, dormant for years, is being reactivated under the current administration.

Local officials believe that commissioning the Koozeh Rash-Gelincik terminal could accelerate regional development, reduce unemployment, and give new momentum to the border economy, given its strategic proximity to Urmia, Tabriz, and Turkiye's Van Province.