Why it matters:
The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest enclosed body of water, is emerging as a focal point for regional diplomacy, energy cooperation, and environmental protection. Iran convened the first summit of governors from Caspian coastal provinces to strengthen ties among neighboring states.
The big picture:
The two‑day summit opened Tuesday in Rasht, Iran, under the slogan “Caspian: Bridge of Friendship and Regional Development.”
Delegations from nine foreign regions and five Iranian provinces are attending, alongside senior officials and ambassadors.
The agenda focuses on regional cooperation, economic integration, sustainable development, and environmental protection.
What he's saying:
Speaking at the first summit of Caspian coastal governors in Rasht, he emphasized the sea’s vast oil, gas, and fisheries resources, while urging joint efforts to tackle environmental challenges and expand tourism and trade among neighboring states.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the 20‑year strategic partnership signed last year between Iran and Russia, noting ongoing close political and economic exchanges.
He referenced recent presidential visits to Russia and Azerbaijan, adding that trips to Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan are planned soon.
Araghchi stressed the Caspian’s strategic role in energy, transit corridors, and trade, calling cooperation among coastal states “vital for all members.”
He pointed to tourism potential, saying provinces like Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan, alongside Iran’s religious destinations such as Mashhad, could become attractions for Caspian neighbors.
On environmental challenges, Araghchi urged joint action against pollution and illegal fishing, describing the Caspian as a “treasure of diverse wealth, from energy to fisheries.”
What’s next:
Iran hopes the summit will identify and operationalize new areas of cooperation, positioning the Caspian as a hub for energy, trade, tourism, and sustainable development.
Go deeper:
Caspian Coastal Governors Meet in Iran to Boost Regional Cooperation
Hossein Amiri - Mahboubeh Habibi
