Pakistan announced that the ECO Freight Train on the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul corridor will restart operations on Dec 31, 2025. The revived service will reconnect Asia and Europe through a faster and more cost-efficient rail link.
The route has long been seen as a strategic connector for regional trade. Its return comes at a moment when businesses seek reliable transport options to strengthen supply chains across continents.
Corridor reopening aims to boost regional trade
Pakistan’s Ministry of Railways confirmed that the first train will depart from Islamabad at the end of December. The reopening restores a line that links South Asia with the Middle East and Europe through Türkiye’s network. Officials expect the corridor to reduce transport times and support smoother access to European markets.
The multinational route connects major economic hubs in Pakistan, Iran and Türkiye, offering exporters and importers lower logistical costs and a more predictable trade pathway.
Government urges businesses to benefit early
Pakistan’s Minister of Railways Hanif Abbasi stated that rail operations will be fully active by year-end. He encouraged business communities to prepare for new trade opportunities emerging from the renewed Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul service.
He also confirmed that the container programme will return to scheduled operations starting Dec 31, marking the formal restart of the corridor.
Faster Asia-Europe cargo movement through an integrated line
The revival of the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul train represents a major step toward stronger regional integration. The line supports the movement of goods from Asian production zones to European markets, giving companies a continuous rail connection that improves efficiency and diversifies transport choices.
Its renewed service is expected to deepen economic cooperation among Pakistan, Iran and Türkiye and enhance long-term commercial stability.
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