The first forum of governors from Caspian regions, representing countries bordering the Caspian Sea, opened on Nov. 18 in Rasht, Iran, IRNA reported. The event is held under the motto “The Caspian Sea: A Bridge of Friendship and Regional Development.”

Iran initiated the forum, which brought together delegations from the five Caspian states: Turkmenistan, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Iran.

The program includes three main panels: economic cooperation — investment, trade, agricultural partnership and tourism; transport and transit — development of the North–South International Corridor, maritime and rail links, and customs coordination; and environmental protection — restoration of the Caspian ecosystem, preservation of wetlands, sustainable fisheries management and promotion of a green economy.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi delivered opening remarks and announced upcoming visits by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan next month.

The forum concludes on Nov. 19, 2025.