MOSCOW, April 23. /TASS/. Russia and Iran have agreed to create a consortium of shipping companies and ports of the two countries, the Russian Ministry of Transport reported after a meeting between Russian Deputy Minister of Transport Dmitry Zverev and Vice Minister for Roads and Urban Development of Iran Saeid Rasouli.

The meeting was held as part of the preparation and holding of the permanent Russian-Iranian commission on trade and economic cooperation.

"An agreement has been reached to create a consortium (Association) of Russian and Iranian shipping companies and Russian and Iranian ports. It is planned to hold talks between such companies and ports in May in Makhachkala," the ministry said.

The representatives of Russia and Iran also discussed the results and prospects for the development of transportation along the International North-South Transport Corridor, in particular, along its eastern and western routes, as well as the implementation of the Rasht-Astara railway construction project.

"In the period from May 23 to 25, expert consultations and meetings of the Association of International Automobile Carriers with Iranian colleagues, as well as consultations of aviation authorities, will be held," the Transport Ministry added.