Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has announced that the long-awaited Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) train service will officially resume operations on December 31, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s regional connectivity and trade ambitions.

Speaking to reporters, the minister said the revival of the ITI train will strengthen economic, diplomatic, and transport links between Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey. The transnational rail service, also known as the ECO freight train, was launched under the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) framework to facilitate trade across the three countries but was suspended due to operational and infrastructure challenges.

Abbasi emphasized that the resumption of the route reflects the government’s commitment to improving regional trade corridors and enhancing Pakistan’s role as a transit hub between Central and Western Asia. He added that the service will initially operate for cargo transport, with plans to include passenger operations in future phases.

The minister also revealed that a new 400-kilometer railway track is currently being laid as part of the Reko Diq project, aimed at improving freight transport and supporting mineral exports from Balochistan.

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He stated that Pakistan Railways is working on multiple infrastructure upgrades, including modern signaling systems and freight management reforms, to boost efficiency and revenue.

With the ITI route set to reopen, analysts say Pakistan could see a new era of regional economic integration and increased trade through sustainable railway connectivity.