WANA (Sep 10) – Representatives of Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey have agreed to operate at least one cargo train per month along the 6,540-kilometer ITI rail corridor (Istanbul–Tehran–Islamabad) during a meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Islamabad, a move expected to significantly boost regional trade speed and competitiveness.

 

According to the ECO Secretariat, a two-day meeting was held in Islamabad with representatives from Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan, focusing on facilitating the operation of cargo trains along the strategically important ITI economic corridor.

 

The meeting, attended by ECO Secretary-General Asad Majid Khan and senior officials from Pakistan Railways, marked an important step toward strengthening regional transport cooperation.

 

Participants emphasized the need to remove tariff, customs, and logistical obstacles. Key agreements included adopting uniform and competitive freight rates, ensuring timely train schedules, full loading of trains, customs facilitation, and transshipment support at border crossings. These measures were formalized in an official protocol.

 

A major decision from the meeting was to operate at least one cargo train per month along the ITI corridor. The 6,540-kilometer rail route can cover the distance in less than 10 days—about one-third the time of maritime transport—offering significant reductions in both cost and transit time. Officials said this cooperation promises a brighter future for trade and transportation in the region.

Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey Agree to Relaunch ITI Transit Train Corridor. Social Media / WANA News Agency

Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey Agree to Relaunch ITI Transit Train Corridor. Social Media / WANA News Agency