Strengthening the North-South Corridor Through the Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding

Strengthening the North-South Corridor Through the Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation Between the Sirjan Special Economic Zone and Lotus Astrakhan Given the central role of the Sirjan Special Economic Zone in the development of regional logistics, transportation, and trade, a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the Sirjan Special Economic Zone and the Lotus Special Economic Zone was signed on December 10, 2025, with the aim of developing trade and economic relations between Iran and Russia. This memorandum of understanding aims to promote cooperation in information exchange, the development of trade relations between the parties, and the establishment of direct communication between economic actors in both regions. It also provides for the establishment of platforms for organizing working meetings, seminars, conferences, and specialized exhibitions to develop trade and showcase the strengths and products of both parties. This memorandum, which underscores the strategic role of the Sirjan Special Economic Zone as a major industrial and logistics hub for the country, takes into account the transport and logistics capacities and potential of both parties and envisions joint measures to develop cooperation in the field of freight transport via the North-South international transport corridor. Furthermore, the implementation of joint programs for the exchange of expertise aimed at strengthening, deepening, and expanding regional trade and economic relations is also planned. This cooperation is expected to foster increased economic exchanges between Iranian and Russian private sector actors, particularly along the axis connecting the Astrakhan region.