Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov has outlined the country’s key priorities for developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, also known as the Middle Corridor, and improving its efficiency.
Speaking at the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor conference, Makhkamov emphasized the importance of expanding Uzbekistan’s cooperation with the European Union and international financial institutions, attracting international investment and creating a safe, efficient and competitive route between Europe and Asia.
According to Makhkamov, the sustainable development of the Trans-Caspian Corridor requires integrating rail and road infrastructure into a single system. Modern logistics infrastructure will play an important role in this process.
Uzbekistan is steadily expanding its network of logistics centers and warehouses as it seeks to strengthen its position as a major regional transit hub.
The minister also highlighted several infrastructure projects under implementation. These include the construction of an Uzbek terminal at ports in Georgia, the establishment of a joint venture with Azerbaijani partners to increase cargo transportation capacity in the Caspian Sea, the acquisition of new cargo vessels and an expansion in the number of services.
Additional opportunities for carriers and businesses have been created by the introduction of 70% discounts on rail transportation under the multimodal CASCA+ route.
“A modern transport corridor is not only about quality roads. Above all, it is about prompt decision-making and a barrier-free environment,” Makhkamov said.
According to the minister, further digitalization of transport and customs procedures, stronger regional integration, the use of international experience and expanded cooperation with the private sector remain important conditions for improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor.
