Azerbaijan’s Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation during the Iran-Azabaijan Joint Economic Cooperation Committee on Monday.
Mustafayev praised the hosting of the Azerbaijani delegation in Tehran, emphasizing that the extensive agenda under discussion will greatly contribute to the growth and prosperity of the relationship between the two neighbors.
Referring to the agreement reached last January, he said he emphasized the deepening of numerous high-level visits as he witnessed remarkable progress afterwards. He emphasized that the foundation of Iran and Azerbaijan’s relationship lies in strong cultural and historical ties, and pointed out that President Ilham Aliyev places great importance on good ties with Iran.
Officials in Azerbaijani have said President Masudo Pezeshkian’s recent visit to Baku have been “very successful”, bringing important results, including the launch of direct flights between Baku and Tehran, Baku and Tabriz. He said both Iranian and Azerbaijani airlines are currently operating on these routes and are currently underway to expand their services.
Mustafayev also announced the participation of representatives of Nahtiban in bank restrictions, cultural events held in Tehran, Aldabil and Urmia, and the city’s economic activities as a sign of strengthening cooperation.
He said bilateral trade was above $300 million in the first half of 2025, with new contracts expected to further boost this figure. In transport, he highlighted the strategic role of the north-south corridors, predicting that by 2028, transport volumes would reach 5 million tonnes and would grow further beyond 2030.
Deputy Prime Minister Azeri pointed to major infrastructure projects including the construction of the Agbando Kalale Bridge, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year, as well as the expansion of the roads, terminals and Astaro Logistics Hub. These will ease congestion and increase freight transport, he said.
He added that his 20-member delegation will visit Tabriz and Bandar Abbas to explore cooperation in the port and logistics. Mustafayev also revealed plans for the upcoming trilateral Iran-Azabaijan-Russia Conference held in Baku, focusing on transportation, energy and other strategic areas.
MNA/6598473