OREANDA-NEWS. February 10, 2011. Russian Railways President Vladimir Yakunin led a delegation of Russian Railways to Iran and in Tehran met with government representatives and senior managers of Iranian Railways, including Managing Director Saheb Mohammadi, reported the press-centre of RZD.

"A mutually beneficial partnership between Russian and Iranian railways in modernisation and infrastructure development is key to strengthening economic cooperation and friendly relations between Iran and Russia," said Yakunin.

The partners discussed cooperation between the rail systems of the two countries in implementing joint infrastructure projects in Iran. The Iranians proposed that Russia play a role in electrifying the Tehran - Bafq railway line.

Following the meeting, the sides agreed to establish a working group for the joint development of the proposal with a proposed schedule and other conditions.

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Russian-Iranian cooperation in rail transport is focused on implementing infrastructure projects in Iran and delivering rail freight and Russian machinery, equipment, technologies and materials to Iran.

The President of Russian Railways Vladimir Yakunin met with Iran’s ambassador to Russia, Mr. Seyed Mahmoud Reza Sajjadi on 15 June 2010 to discuss prospects for developing mutually beneficial cooperation between Russian Railways and Iran in the rail sector. Also discussed were plans to enhance bilateral cooperation in the framework of the line between Rasht - Astara (Iran) - Astara (Azerbaijan) and the supply of rolling stock and security and safety systems to Iran’s railways.

Vladimir Yakunin and the President of Iranian Railways Dr. H. Ziari signed a contract to electrify the 48-km railway line Tabriz - Azarshahr (TARE) on 29 March 2008 in Tehran.