Referring to the need for collaboration among coastal countries, he emphasized the importance of overcoming environmental, transportation, and tourism challenges. These issues were discussed and agreed upon at The First Caspian Governors’ Forum in Rasht.
According to a report from the Public Relations Department of the Governor of Guilan, Hadi Haghshenas, the Governor highlighted the significance of regional cooperation during the forum. He mentioned that the forum was a result of decisions made by the prime ministers and first deputy presidents of the five Caspian bordering countries at a previous Tehran summit.
The Governor of Guilan also mentioned that Iran designated Guilan as the host of the event, with preparations beginning months in advance to ensure its success. Additionally, he noted that the chambers of commerce of the five bordering countries and managers of free zones were invited to strengthen economic and trade ties alongside political discussions.
During the forum, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts were present in Rasht to show their support for the forum. Discussions focused on tourism development in the Caspian, enhancing transportation and north-south corridors, and addressing environmental concerns such as the decline in the Caspian Sea water level.
The Governor of Guilan mentioned that 18 speeches were delivered on the first day of the forum, and a final statement was approved with the agreement of all five countries. He emphasized the strategic importance of the sea for the growth of countries, highlighting Iran’s unique position with water borders in the north and south.
Haghshenas stressed the need for continuing dialogue and operational cooperation, stating that the Rasht forum could lead to larger measures in interactions among Caspian countries. He expressed gratitude for the media’s support in accurately conveying the forum’s achievements and helping to achieve common goals among the five coastal countries.
