In a high-level meeting, officials from Dagestan and Iran have affirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership focused on developing the Caspian Sea region, with plans to establish Makhachkala as a central hub for cruise tourism and a key node in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

The discussions, involving Dagestan's Head Rizvan Gazimagomedov and Andrey Tarasenko, Head of Rosmorrechflot (the Russian Federal Agency for Maritime and River Transport), highlighted a dual-track strategy. The first is to unlock the region's significant tourism potential.

"Dagestan possesses immense potential for tourism development" - Gazimagomedov stated. "By establishing Makhachkala as a center for Caspian cruises, we will not only boost our economies but also strengthen the humanitarian ties between our nations."
The second track focuses on solidifying the role of Makhachkala as a critical logistics hub. Tarasenko emphasized the port's importance for the "North-South" corridor, a strategic route connecting Russia with Iran's port of Anzali. Stable interaction is already established, with a growing volume of cargo including grain, cement, clinker, and fertilizers being transshipped.

To support this growth, an active modernization of Makhachkala port is underway, including updated infrastructure, new access roads, and improved railway links. Furthermore, specialized educational programs in shipbuilding and transport have been launched at the local Machine-Building College to ensure a skilled workforce for this developing industry.