A panel discussion titled «Middle Corridor and Eurasian Connection Gateway» took place during the 13th Global Baku Forum, focusing on strengthening transport and economic links between Asia and Europe.
The session was moderated by former Serbian President Boris Tadic.
Abdulaziz Kamilov, adviser to the president of Uzbekistan on foreign policy, described the growing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Central Asian states as a historically significant strategic process. He noted that meetings between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Central Asian leaders play a key role in expanding cooperation in trade, economic development and energy.
Chairman of the Council of Elders of the Organization of Turkic States Binali Yıldırım highlighted the importance of the Middle Corridor for regional trade. According to him, with the right strategic steps the annual volume of transportation along the route could grow significantly, strengthening Eurasian logistics.
Shahmar Movsumov said Azerbaijan places particular emphasis on integrating transport, energy and digital infrastructure within the Middle Corridor initiative. He also noted that the Trans-Caspian Fiber Optic Cable project aims to provide high-speed digital connectivity between Asia and Europe of up to 300 terabits per second.
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia Eka Tkeshelashvili stressed Azerbaijan’s key role in promoting regional integration and noted that countries in the region are increasingly able to make independent strategic decisions.
Ana Birchall, a former deputy prime minister of Romania, underlined the importance of maintaining an active role as a bridge between the South Caucasus, Central Asia and the Euro-Atlantic region.
Former Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Rashid Alimov said that one of the key goals is to develop freight hubs along the corridor and integrate the route into global supply chains.
According to former Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Djoomart Otorbaev, Azerbaijan’s role in connecting Asia and Europe is crucial for the successful development of the Middle Corridor.
Lazar Comanescu, Secretary General of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, added that building land and maritime links between Europe and Asia remains one of the key strategic priorities of the modern era.
The discussion continued with participants exchanging views on the future development of the Middle Corridor and deeper regional cooperation.
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