Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) has initiated discussions regarding the restoration of the Baku-Tbilisi-Baku passenger train service. This move marks a significant step toward reopening international rail links between the two neighboring countries.
According to information provided to Operative Information Center-OMM by ADY, technical and organizational issues are currently being addressed in a working format with Georgian Railways. "Based on the instructions provided, ADY is conducting discussions with Georgian Railways on technical and organizational matters related to the restoration of the Baku-Tbilisi-Baku passenger train service," the statement from ADY noted. However, the CJSC has not yet disclosed specific details regarding the exact timeline for the resumption of the service.
The Baku-Tbilisi rail link is a vital transport artery connecting the capitals of Azerbaijan and Georgia, serving as a key component of the regional transport infrastructure. Passenger rail services between the two nations were suspended in March 2020 following the global COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent closure of land borders. The restoration of this route is expected to significantly boost regional tourism and strengthen bilateral ties between Baku and Tbilisi, aligning with Azerbaijan's strategic goal of enhancing its position as a major transport and logistics hub in the South Caucasus.