The spokesperson for the Iraqi government, Bassim Al-Awadi, announced the foundation stone for the Basra-Shalamjah railway link project.
The project aimed at transporting travelers and visitors between Iraq and Iran.
Al-Awadi said: “The cornerstone for launching the implementation of this vital project to transport travelers and visitors between Iraq and Iran will be laid tomorrow.”
He pointed out that “this is among the important transportation projects in the region.”
The spokesperson added that it will also effectively contribute to transporting travelers and visitors from Central Asian countries towards Iraq.
“This project serves as an introduction to transportation projects that will connect Iraq with neighboring countries.”
“The government is working to implement these projects after they remained in the discussion and research phase for many years without being put into action.”
Iraqi Transport Minister Razak Mujibas announced that his country had reached an agreement with Iran on the Shalamjah-Basra railway link project.
He emphasized the importance of this rail link between the two countries for “transporting travelers, especially during religious visits.”
Under the agreement, Iraq will handle the establishment of the railway line, stations, and sites.
Iran will be in charge of constructing the navigational bridge on the Shatt al-Arab and clearing mines along a 16-kilometer stretch within the project.
Earlier this week, Iran and Iraq had reached an agreement to disarm and relocate Kurdish militant groups.
Tehran said it would take action if Baghdad does not honor its commitment by mid-September.
“The Iraqi government pledged to disarm armed terrorist groups in Iraq by September 19,” Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani noted.
“After this deadline, if Iraq fails to meet its commitments, the Iranian government will assume its responsibility.”
Kanani said Baghdad had agreed to “transfer to camps provided by the Iraqi government.”
