Tokayev: Kazakhstan keen to expand trade, transport co-op in Central Asia

Kazakhstan supports the expansion of trade and transport cooperation in Central Asia, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said, Report informs.

During his speech at the 6th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Azerbaijan and Central Asia, Tokayev emphasized that the implementation of joint infrastructure and transport projects will contribute to the further development of the economy of five Central Asian countries.

“Further development of the region’s transit and transport potential, along with the adoption of a comprehensive strategy for the transport system of Central Asia, is crucial,” Tokayev said.

He highlighted key projects such as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, the International North-South Transport Corridor, and the Belt, Road Initiative, which involve various Central Asian countries.

“Thanks to joint efforts, the potential of the entire Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway line is continuously increasing. Today, it is the shortest route to the Persian Gulf countries,” Tokayev noted.

The president added that Kazakhstan plans to modernize over 11,000 km of railway lines by 2030 and considers the construction of the Trans-Afghanistan railway line, which will provide access to South Asian markets, as promising. By 2030, Kazakhstan aims to build more than 5,000 km of new railway lines.

Tokayev also underlined that the development of trade, logistics, and industrial hubs in border areas is a priority.

“Strengthening our comprehensive partnership in areas such as agriculture, logistics, textile and chemical industry, and construction through new agreements is essential,” he said.

Tokayev underscored the goal of increasing trade turnover between Central Asian countries to $15 billion in the near future.