TEHRAN (Iran News) During the second day of his visit to Iraq, Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, met with his Iraqi counterpart on Sunday, emphasizing the need for deeper transportation cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of facilitating travel for Arbaeen pilgrims in the coming months and praised the overall progress in bilateral transport collaborations.

Sadegh stressed that expanding transport infrastructure is crucial for enhancing economic and trade relations between the two countries. He explained that improved connectivity would allow Iraq access to the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Russia via Iran through both rail and road, while Iran could gain strategic land and rail links to Arab Gulf nations through Iraq.

The Iranian minister also pointed to Kazakhstan’s interest in transiting cargo through Iran to Iraq and proposed a trilateral meeting between Iran, Iraq, and Kazakhstan to facilitate regional transit cooperation.

He reiterated Iran’s proposals, including the establishment of this trilateral mechanism, the completion of the Shalamcheh–Basra railway, and the broader integration of the Iranian and Iraqi rail networks. He noted that the resumption of the Shalamcheh–Basra railway under the administration of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani indicates Baghdad’s commitment to the project.

Sadegh announced that demining operations along the Shalamcheh–Basra route have been completed. He urged Iraqi authorities to formally receive the cleared land by appointing a quality control company, stressing that the handover is a key step to accelerating the railway’s construction.

The Iranian minister also revealed plans to complete the construction of the movable Arvand technical bridge before next year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage. He expressed hope that with Iraq’s cooperation, the Shalamcheh–Basra railway could also be completed by then.

Sadegh underscored the strategic importance of building a road and railway link connecting Khorramshahr to Khanaqin and Baghdad. He proposed detailed discussions between the Iranian and Iraqi rail authorities to finalize the Shalamcheh–Basra project.

He also mentioned that the substructure for the Kermanshah–Islamabad rail line is 82% complete and that track-laying toward Khorramshahr will begin soon. Once completed, this would enable rail connectivity between Iraq, Central Asia, and China.

Sadegh emphasized the necessity of signing a road transport agreement between Iran and Iraq to support seamless transit. He proposed that further demining be carried out along the remaining width of the railway corridor, simultaneously with its transfer to a Spanish company.

Iran, he added, believes Iraq’s development lies in improved regional transit coordination. The country is also ready to start pilot cargo transits under the TIR Convention within a month, before the month of Muharram.

Sadegh said a meeting will be held with the International Road Transport Union to support Iraq’s implementation of the TIR Convention, adding that Iran is ready to share its experience and knowledge. Iran is also finalizing upgrades at border terminals like Shalamcheh, expected to be completed in the coming months.

Iraqi Minister of Transport Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi, who also attended the meeting, confirmed the formation of a High Committee for Arbaeen Pilgrimages, responsible for overseeing travel safety, infrastructure readiness, and inter-agency coordination.

He affirmed Iraq’s commitment to completing its transportation infrastructure—particularly rail links—citing Iraq’s strategic geographic position and the importance of rail connectivity for regional integration.

Al-Saadawi voiced support for Iranian proposals, including the Khorramshahr–Khanaqin–Baghdad railway and a trilateral Iran–Iraq–Kazakhstan transit meeting. He also emphasized that Iraq has no obstacles to cooperating on the TIR Convention.

Calling the Shalamcheh–Basra railway a national priority, he said the project is personally endorsed by the Iraqi Prime Minister and will be pursued seriously. He commended Iran’s efforts to revive the project after years of dormancy and vowed that Iraq will work to eliminate any remaining obstacles and accelerate its completion.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Sadegh shared details of her visit, which included participation in the “Year of Peace and Trust” conference, a gathering focused on children’s rights and future prospects. The conference was held in Turkmenistan, with the presence of several ministers from various countries and the Deputy President of Turkmenistan. Sadegh highlighted that the conference coincided with Quds Day in Iran, underscoring the importance of children’s rights in all territories, including Gaza and Palestine.

Sadegh emphasized that children in Gaza and Palestine have the same rights as those in any other country, and this was a central theme of discussions during the conference. The Iranian minister reiterated the commitment to advocating for these rights globally.

In addition to her conference participation, Sadegh met with Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister and Minister of Transport to discuss bilateral cooperation. The discussions led to key agreements, including the organization of a joint economic commission meeting in Tehran within the next two months. This meeting aims to bring many of the discussed agreements to fruition.

Among the critical points discussed were the transfer of gas and electricity, the export of technical and engineering services, and the construction of the Atrak-Gomdag road, which will be undertaken by an Iranian contractor and will begin shortly.

One of the major agreements was the expansion of cargo transportation between the two nations. Currently, fewer than 200 wagons are exchanged via rail, but the new accord will boost this number to 400 wagons, facilitating a significant increase in trade and cargo movement.

Moreover, the ministers agreed on the launch of a trial passenger train service. Following a technical evaluation, a passenger train route will be established between Mashhad-Sarakhs in Iran and Merv in Turkmenistan, which will eventually extend to Uzbekistan. This development is expected to enhance connectivity in the region and foster stronger ties between the two countries.

Sadegh expressed her hope that the upcoming joint economic commission meeting would further strengthen Iran’s relations with Turkmenistan and other Central Asian nations, contributing to greater regional cooperation and economic growth.

Meanwhile in a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan, Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development announced the upcoming joint economic commission between the two countries, which will be hosted in Tehran in May. They discussed transportation cooperation and the export of technical-engineering services.

Sadegh also met with the daughter of Turkmenistan’s leader and Rashid Meredov, the country’s Foreign Minister. The two sides discussed transportation cooperation, as well as technical-engineering services and their export.

Discussions regarding electricity, gas, and energy with Turkmenistan were also among the topics exchanged by officials from both Iran and Turkmenistan.

Additionally, there are ongoing talks for further collaboration in transit corridors, as well as in the railway, road, and other transportation sectors in Turkmenistan.

It is worth mentioning that today, officials from both countries reviewed various areas of cooperation in all economic and commercial sectors. The schedule for the joint commission was also determined during this meeting.

According to the decisions made, the joint economic commission between Iran and Turkmenistan is scheduled to be held in the last week of May in Tehran. During this commission, the roadmap for transportation cooperation between the two countries, the roadmap for the development of technical and engineering cooperation, and the cooperation plan for energy will be discussed and agreed upon.

In these meetings, efforts will be made to sign new cooperation agreements in addition to the joint commission document on the specified areas of cooperation.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Sadegh emphasized her ministry’s dedication to fulfilling its mandates under higher-level laws and policies. “Over the past six months, we’ve focused on delivering our defined responsibilities with excellence,” she said. Key initiatives include transparency in housing data through the upcoming launch of the TAM system, ensuring equitable access to rural roads, flights, and housing, and prioritizing affordable housing for the underprivileged. “We aim to create a diverse housing portfolio to meet varied needs,” she added.

Sadegh underscored the importance of direct public engagement, citing her visit to a juvenile correction center as evidence of the government’s commitment to all societal segments. “When I visit such places, it shows the system hasn’t forgotten these individuals,” she noted.

On the transit front, Sadegh highlighted recent diplomatic efforts with neighboring countries, including Russia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, and Turkmenistan. “Transit development hinges on regional diplomacy,” she said, pointing to progress in the North-South Corridor, particularly the Rasht-Astara railway. Addressing media speculation, she clarified, “The Russians have not backed out of the loan, nor has the project been canceled.” Over the past six months, she held five meetings with Russia’s Transport Minister, resolving legal concerns. Russia insists on land acquisition, and Iran has agreed to provide a timeline for this by next year’s end, with Moscow simultaneously conducting technical studies.

A trilateral agreement involving Russia, Azerbaijan, and Iran further bolsters the project. Azerbaijan strongly supports it, securing a Russian guarantee for five million tons of cargo annually, though Sadegh predicts up to 15 million tons.

Turning to aviation, Sadegh tackled concerns over exorbitant airfares following a judicial ruling liberalizing ticket prices. She acknowledged warnings from Iran’s regulatory bodies to airlines. “Some airlines fail to deliver services that respect passengers’ dignity,” she said, vowing action. “Beyond judicial measures, we’ll revoke flight permits if they overcharge or underperform.”

Sadegh also addressed Iran’s rail sector, admitting a fleet shortage. “We’ve prioritized expansion over the past six months, and private sector involvement is key to accelerating this,” she said, noting ongoing efforts to modernize the network.

Responding to media criticism of her ministry’s performance, Sadegh welcomed the scrutiny. “We’re at the forefront of public service, so demands are high. I see this as constructive feedback that strengthens my connection with people through the media,” she said.

The Rasht-Astara railway remains a flagship project, symbolizing Iran’s push for enhanced regional connectivity. Sadegh’s assurances of Russia’s continued support counter earlier doubts, reinforcing Tehran’s commitment to completing this critical link in the North-South Corridor. With land acquisition underway and technical studies progressing, the project is poised to boost trade, potentially transforming Iran’s transit capabilities.

As the ministry balances infrastructure ambitions with public service obligations, Sadegh’s multifaceted approach—spanning housing, aviation, and transit—signals a proactive stance amid economic and diplomatic challenges. Her warning to airlines underscores a broader intent to safeguard consumer rights, while her optimism about rail and transit projects reflects confidence in Iran’s strategic positioning. With Azerbaijan and Russia aligned on the railway’s potential, the coming year will test Iran’s ability to deliver on these promises, potentially reshaping regional trade dynamics.

End of Report

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Sadegh stated, “The completion of transit corridors should have happened much earlier, but it’s not too late even now.” She pointed out that China still views Iran as a faster, cheaper, and shorter transit route for goods, a factor that has encouraged Turkey to deepen ties with Iran. “Developing border terminals is also among our priorities,” she added.

In the past five months, the ministry has ramped up engagement with neighbors through joint commissions, webinars, and invitations to visit Iran, focusing on borders, terminals, and regional connectivity. Addressing a recent issue faced by Iranian truck drivers at the Turkish border over the “full fuel tank” policy, Sadegh praised the role of provincial governors, particularly West Azerbaijan Governor Rahman Rahmani, whose efforts bolstered Iran’s negotiating position with Turkish officials.

“Despite energy imbalances, sanctions, and potential escalation of restrictions, transportation and transit remain a fundamental solution,” she said, urging preparations to facilitate this sector. Sadegh highlighted that connecting transit roads to borders and railways would drive development and wealth creation, calling on governors to advocate this vision to the government, parliament, and judiciary.

Sadegh acknowledged requests for cash funding amid energy shortages and other challenges but noted the complexity of disbursing funds late in the fiscal year (month 12 of the Persian calendar, nearing Nowruz). She cited obligations like payments to wheat farmers and nurses—debts inherited from previous administrations—explaining that even funds from revenue-cost companies had been redirected to farmers. “Allocating funds isn’t something I can simply order; the resources must exist,” she said, noting that provinces have so far received bonds rather than cash.

She revealed that 8 trillion tomans from her ministry’s budget went to the Planning and Budget Organization, with a quarter allocated to parliament. With provinces juggling projects at 5% to 95% completion, Sadegh instructed her team to list road projects needing less than 20 kilometers to finish—some lingering for 5 to 25 years. Completing these alone requires over 500 trillion toman nationwide.

Sadegh urged governors to prioritize projects and not tie asset monetization solely to her ministry’s properties. She encouraged them to leverage assets from other entities with a “fatherly perspective,” citing Alborz province as a success story where monetized land is funding a highway. “Governors should submit their monetization and project priorities to us,” she said.

On housing, Sadegh referenced the Seventh Development Plan and the Housing Production Leap Law. Approximately 1.8 million people have registered over recent years, meeting eligibility criteria, with 800,000 securing initial payments. In recent months, 60,000 more projects were linked to bank loans, bringing the total to 430,000, though 400,000 remain unfunded. After talks with the Central Bank, loan quotas were assigned to banks, and Sadegh urged governors to monitor banks’ compliance.

Housing preparation, she explained, is split between her ministry (one-third), the Ministry of Energy and regional water companies (one-third), and governorates (one-third). Citing a completed single-story housing project in Tabas lacking water, she said, “We won’t inaugurate it without water.” In some areas, land preparation costs 5 to 10 times the land’s value, which she deemed wasteful. “In some cases, buying homes would be cheaper,” she added.

Under the Population Youth Law, securing land has proven difficult in some provinces. Sadegh stressed that only land with clear boundaries should be allocated. While land swaps with contractors were previously barred, the 2025 budget now allows it, promising relief.

Of the 800,000 funded housing projects, over 300,000 belong to higher-income deciles (8–10), requiring prioritization for the rest. “Not everything can hinge on the budget; provinces must act creatively,” she said, pledging to delegate authority if needed. She also addressed land shortages in free trade zones, noting a new agreement with the Free Zones High Council to streamline monetization and other processes.

The Minister also warned non-compliant airlines: If they increase airfare prices arbitrarily and without regulation, their licenses will be revoked.

The issue of airfare prices was one of the topics discussed in the second meeting to review the 1404 (2025) Nowruz travels at the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development.

In this meeting, Sadeghcriticized the unregulated increase in airfare prices and called for serious action against non-compliant airlines. She stated: “These days, airfare prices have become outrageous, and some airlines increase prices whenever they decide.”

She continued: “While we had an agreement with airlines to keep fuel prices under control so they wouldn’t rise, they have still raised ticket prices.” The Minister of Roads and Urban Development said: “Given the recent resolution of the Consumer Protection Task Force, we must intervene in airfare pricing, and if they cannot prevent the price increases, their licenses will be revoked.” She added: “In this case, compliant airlines will be encouraged, and the public will understand that our supervision is not just about issuing notices and giving verbal warnings.”

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Farzaneh Sadegh Malvajerd highlighted Iran’s close collaboration with the IRU during the meeting. She emphasized that as a leading international organization in road transport, the IRU has maintained strong cooperation with Iran’s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development. She further noted that Iran’s share in transit cargo transportation along the North-South and East-West corridors could be significantly increased by utilizing IRU’s advanced tools, particularly digital solutions.

Sadegh Malvajerd pointed to Iran’s new record of 20 million tons of transit cargo in 2024 as evidence of the country’s high capacity in international transport. She stressed that this achievement underscores the need for greater engagement with the IRU and stronger regional cooperation.

The minister also highlighted the importance of international transport cooperation, emphasizing the exchange of commercial information and transport regulations among member states of the TIR Convention. She called for the acceleration of discussions on road transport safety and the possibility of collaboration with the Road Safety Fund, recognizing IRU’s role in facilitating transport cooperation and road safety.

During the meeting, Sadegh Malvajerd announced Iran’s upcoming presidency of the Intergovernmental Commission on TRACECA (Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia) in the next two weeks. She stated: “We are organizing the ministerial meeting of the TRACECA Intergovernmental Commission, and we hope this summit will create unique opportunities for expanding regional interactions and strengthening the TIR system.”

IRU Secretary-General Umberto de Pretto, acknowledging Iran’s role in regional road transport, described the appointment of a female minister in Iran’s transport sector as an inspiring move on the global stage. He noted the underrepresentation of women in the transport industry and expressed hope that this appointment would encourage greater female participation in the sector.

De Pretto also agreed with Minister Sadegh Malvajerd’s perspective on the role of transport in regional peace and stability, emphasizing that trade via road transport is a crucial tool for global stability. “Iran is a leader and pioneer in implementing the TIR Convention in the region, and Iranian road transport companies and professionals have decades of expertise in this field. Iran’s cooperation in expanding regional transit through the implementation of this convention across all countries in the region could be highly effective,” he stated.

The TIR Convention is an international agreement designed to facilitate international road transport and reduce trade barriers. It enables seamless door-to-door cargo transportation from origin to destination without unnecessary stops. As one of the leading countries in implementing this system, Iran plays a key role in the development of international transit routes.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh has traveled to Turkiye where she is due to follow up on the previously signed agreements between the two countries.

Sadegh arrived in Ankara on Monday at the head of a delegation.

She was welcomed by Iran’s ambassador to Turkiye as well as officials from the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.

The Iranian minister is set to hold talks with Turkish authorities on the agreements previously reached by Tehran-Ankara Joint Economic Commission, and to review the ongoing transportation cooperation between the two countries.

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