The government of Tajikistan is placing significant emphasis on the development of the transport sector, focusing on the creation and modernization of transport corridors and railway infrastructure. This was a central theme at the consultative meeting of railway administration leaders held in Baku, where the establishment of the International Association for Eurasian Transport Route was discussed.
Tajikistan:
Sorbun Gulakhmadov, the First Deputy Head of the State Unitary Enterprise “Tajik Railways,” noted that the Middle Corridor is one of the most promising transport routes between Tajikistan and other countries. He emphasized that the creation of the International Association would significantly increase cargo transportation volumes and improve transport services. Gulakhmadov highlighted that for the transport system to operate effectively, it is essential to develop infrastructure and build optimal routes and communications.
Azerbaijan:
Despite lacking direct access to the open sea, Azerbaijan has become one of the international transport hubs. Rovshan Rustamov, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Railways (ADY), reported that through investments in bridge construction and the establishment of a diversified railway network, the country has effectively connected its neighboring states and ensured transit opportunities for the entire region.
A key project is the construction of the Baku-Nakhchivan-Kars railway line, which passes through Iranian territory and connects the Middle Corridor with the International North-South Transport Corridor. This will significantly enhance transit opportunities for both Azerbaijan and its partners.
Recently, an agreement was reached to transport cargo from China via the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line. By the end of this year, around 300 container block trains are expected to be dispatched from China along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor). Rustamov noted that the first container train from the Chinese port of Xi’an arrived in Baku in just 11 days this March. On average, block trains are delivered from China to Azerbaijan in 8-10 days, while delivery to the ports of Georgia takes about 12 days.
In recent years, global logistics markets have transformed, showing an increase in cargo flows from China to Europe and vice versa, which is expected to drive further growth in trade turnover in the coming years. Rustamov pointed out that global railway cargo transportation is increasing by approximately 5 percent annually, with continued growth anticipated.
Strategic Cooperation:
At the meeting, a final protocol was signed by the heads of railway administrations from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, China, and Austria. The discussions covered the establishment of the International Association for Eurasian Transport Route, its structure, the formation of working groups, and issues related to digitalization, commerce, marketing, and logistics.
Rustamov emphasized that President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly supported the “One Belt, One Road” initiative, reflecting Azerbaijan’s commitment to developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor.
Conclusion:
The development of transport infrastructure in Tajikistan and Azerbaijan opens new horizons for international cargo transportation and strengthens regional cooperation. The establishment of the International Association “Eurasian Transport Route” and the implementation of key projects, such as the Baku-Nakhchivan-Kars railway line, highlight both countries’ ambitions to become important transit hubs. The expected increase in cargo flows from China further reinforces this potential, paving the way for enhanced trade and connectivity in the region.