ASTANA – Kazakhstan has called for coordinated efforts to strengthen transport and transit links between Central Asia and the South Caucasus, highlighting the strategic importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor, during a meeting of foreign ministers from Central Asian states and Georgia on Oct. 23.
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi joined his Central Asian counterparts and Georgia’s foreign minister in Tbilisi to discuss regional cooperation and the development of the Middle Corridor. Photo credit: MFA.
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Minister Mukhtar Tileuberdi took part in the meeting at the invitation of Georgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili. During the meeting, the participants highlighted the strong potential for cooperation among the six countries, noting their similar or fully aligned approaches to key areas of cooperation and regional issues.
The ministers emphasized their shared interests in maintaining regional stability, achieving sustainable development and expanding cooperation between Central Asia and the South Caucasus. They also underlined the importance of maintaining regular dialogue to develop practical solutions and advance joint initiatives.
Strengthening the Middle Corridor
Particular attention was paid to developing the Middle Corridor, which connects Asia and Europe. The ministers discussed measures to improve its competitiveness, including modernizing transport infrastructure, digitalizing freight transportation and simplifying transit procedures.
The Kazakh side stressed the importance of coordinated action to unlock the transport and transit potential of Central Asia and the South Caucasus. According to the discussions, reliable and predictable logistics connections could create additional opportunities to increase mutual trade, attract investment and improve access to international markets.
The development of transport infrastructure and more efficient transit procedures remains an important area of regional cooperation, as the participating countries seek to strengthen connections between their economies and international markets.
Regional cooperation and potential development
The meeting provided an opportunity for the six countries to discuss shared priorities and explore ways to deepen cooperation in areas where their interests and approaches align. Participants highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and joint initiatives in supporting regional stability and sustainable development.
During the visit, Tileuberdi and his counterparts explored the potential of Batumi Sea Port in Georgia. The port is a Kazakh asset and one of the key links along the Middle Corridor. The visit offered an opportunity to examine the port’s role in regional transport and transit connections, particularly as the countries seek to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of routes linking Asia and Europe.
