Since 2015, Turkmenistan has invested over $15bn in infrastructure projects for the Trans-Caspian transport corridor, including the development of roads, railways, airports, and the Turkmenbashi seaport, which began operations in 2018 with a $1.5bn investment.
A round table meeting on the potential of the EU Global Gateway initiative and the Trans-Caspian transport corridor took place on May 22, drawing high-level participation from the European Commission, including representatives from the EU Directorate General for Transport and the European External Action Service. Attendees also included diplomats from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, alongside leaders from research organizations and logistics companies.
The discussions centered on the EU Global Gateway initiative and the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor in fostering sustainable transport links between Europe and Asia. The Trans-Caspian Corridor, which spans from China to Europe, is viewed as a critical route for enhancing regional trade and stabilizing supply chains amid global uncertainties, according to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium.
This corridor is envisioned not only as a bridge between continents but also as a vital conduit for regional trade, linking the EU with Turkey, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. Participants stressed the potential of the corridor to bolster economic growth and sustainability through new investments in renewable energy sources like hydrogen, solar, and wind power, which are already shifting supply chain dynamics.
The new composition of the European Commission and the European Parliament is expected to influence the ongoing development of this corridor. A proposed coordination mechanism for transport projects in Central Asia aims to enhance cooperation between the EU and Central Asian business communities, fostering a more integrated and efficient trade network.
Turkmenistan's Ambassador to Belgium reaffirmed his country's commitment to the Trans-Caspian transport corridor, highlighting Turkmenistan's strategic geographic position and substantial investments in transport infrastructure. This seaport alone has the capacity to handle 25 million tons of cargo annually.
Turkmenistan's infrastructure modernization includes over 5,000 kilometers of upgraded railways, ensuring reliable internal and regional transport links. The recent completion of the second phase of the Ashgabat-Turkmenabat expressway, spanning approximately 600 kilometers, is expected to further accelerate transit and improve regional connectivity.
The Ambassador also highlighted Turkmenistan's active engagement in international forums and initiatives aimed at developing global transport corridors. At the investor forum in Brussels, Turkmenistan showcased its projects, attracting significant interest from international investors and logistics companies.
Looking ahead, Turkmenistan plans to expand its transport infrastructure further, including the construction of new railways and highways, while continuing its active participation in the Global Gateway initiative.
The round table concluded with a consensus on the critical role of the Trans-Caspian Corridor in enhancing trade and economic ties between Europe and Asia, reinforcing the EU's commitment to supporting sustainable and resilient transport networks across the region.
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