Authorities in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province say a 23-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed with Afghan officials following a recent visit by an Iranian delegation to Nimroz, aimed at deepening economic cooperation and boosting cross-border trade, reported Ariana News.
Mojib Hassani, Deputy for Economic Coordination and Regional Development in Sistan and Baluchestan, said the visit produced significant outcomes, particularly in expanding small-scale trade, activating border markets, and strengthening bilateral economic ties, said IRNA news agency.
He noted that Iran is fully prepared to launch local border markets in Shahgol, Milak, and Gomshad, but implementation will depend on readiness from the Afghan side. According to Hassani, the necessary infrastructure has already been completed on Iran’s side of the border.
Trade through official crossings remains ongoing, he said, with livestock imports among the key commodities exchanged, especially ahead of Eid al-Adha, when demand typically rises.
Hassani added that the 23-point framework was developed following the Afghan Minister of Commerce’s visit to Iran, with a strong focus on expanding infrastructure to facilitate trade.
The agreement includes the construction of a temporary road linking two border markets, completed within a short timeframe and already contributing to increased trade flows.He also confirmed Iran’s readiness to build a second border bridge.