Kazakhstan, Mongolia mull development of Middle Corridor, North-South corridor

Kazakhstan emphasized the importance of improving transport links with neighboring countries to boost the competitiveness of international corridors, including the Middle Corridor, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev told a briefing with his Mongolian counterpart Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Report informs, citing Tokayev’s office.

The Kazakh president stated that after talks with his Mongolian counterpart, agreements were reached on deepening economic, trade, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation.

"In general, there is every reason to say that the negotiations were very successful. We agreed to intensify economic relations. Kazakhstan and Mongolia are among the largest countries in Asia, and therefore mutual trade should be on a corresponding scale. Last year, trade turnover reached $150 million. In the near future, this figure is planned to reach $500 million. Today we signed a roadmap for the development of trade and economic cooperation," he noted.

According to Tokayev, transport and logistics were discussed during the talks.

"One of the most important tasks is increasing the competitiveness of international corridors. For this, we need to improve transport links between our states and with third countries. This will help increase the volume of cargo transportation through our countries' territories. It is important to effectively use the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) and the North-South international transport corridor," he believes.