Iraq and Iran Sign Deal to Establish Joint Border Market in Shalamcheh

Iraq and Iran Sign Deal to Establish Joint Border Market in Shalamcheh
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Iraq and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a joint border market in the Shalamcheh area, aimed at boosting trade and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries. The agreement was signed between Iraq’s Basra Provincial Council and the General Authority for Free Zones, and Iran’s Arvand Free Zone in Khuzestan Province, with officials from both sides in attendance.

The planned market will include measures to streamline cargo movement, implement an electronic declaration system, coordinate working hours, and operate the crossing around the clock. Basra Council head Mohammed Kazem described the initiative as a key step to enhance border trade and create new job opportunities. He also highlighted the importance of completing the Shalamcheh-Basra railway to further support bilateral transport and trade development.