Middle Corridor Spurs Regional Connectivity With Azerbaijan's Growing Role In OTS

(MENAFN- AzerNews) Nazrin Abdul Read more

Azerbaijan has witnessed significant growth in its trade relations with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member countries, highlighting the country's expanding role as a vital economic and transport hub within the Eurasian region. According to First Deputy Minister of Economy Elnur Aliyev, Azerbaijan's trade turnover with OTS members reached $6.3 billion in January-November 2024, with exports accounting for $3.7 billion of this total.

President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan's export potential remains robust, and there is a concerted effort to enhance the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at increasing trade. This is in line with the broader goal of boosting economic ties within the Turkic world, which is underpinned by strategic agreements such as the Shusha Declaration.

The Shusha Declaration: A catalyst for deeper cooperation

Signed during the "Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States" in Shusha, the Shusha Declaration represents a pivotal moment in the development of trade and political relations among Turkic countries. The declaration, named after the city in Azerbaijan's Garabagh region, serves as a“symbol of victory” and focuses on the multifaceted development of ties in political, economic, transport, defense, humanitarian, educational, and cultural fields.

Among the declaration's main objectives is the acceleration of integration between Turkic states, with a special focus on expanding trade relations and regional cooperation. Azerbaijan's role in facilitating this integration is amplified by its strategic position in key transport corridors, which have become essential to the economic dynamics of the region.

The Middle Corridor: A key to regional connectivity

A crucial aspect of Azerbaijan's growing trade relations with Central Asia and beyond is the Middle Corridor or the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. This vital transport link connects China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and European countries via the Caspian Sea, offering a direct route between East and West.

The Middle Corridor's significance has been underscored by the 63% increase in cargo transportation along the route in 2024, reaching 4.1 million tons by November. This increase reflects not only the growing demand for trade and transport but also the successful implementation of joint projects among Turkic states aimed at facilitating trade and digitalizing the region's transport infrastructure.

Azerbaijan's strategic geographical position enables it to play a bridging role between Central Asia, the South Caucasus, the Black Sea, Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean. By improving regional connectivity, Azerbaijan is helping its Central Asian partners diversify trade routes and enhance their access to global markets.

Azerbaijan's central role in regional cooperation

The strengthening of Azerbaijan's relations with Central Asian countries, particularly through enhanced transport and logistics cooperation, is also supported by high-level diplomatic engagements. President Ilham Aliyev's frequent visits to Central Asia and his participation in regional events reflect the growing importance of these ties.

Additionally, Azerbaijan's transport infrastructure development has positioned the country as one of the most important transport and logistics centers in the Eurasian region. Cooperation in sectors such as energy, transport, and logistics has brought about significant changes, both regionally and globally, reshaping energy landscapes and reducing Europe's dependence on traditional energy sources.

Upcoming diplomatic developments: Turkiye-Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan cooperation

In a further sign of the strengthening ties within the Turkic world, a trilateral meeting between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, and Uzbekistan is scheduled for January 29, 2025, in Ankara. The meeting will involve Foreign Ministers and Transport Ministers from the three countries, underscoring the importance of coordination on transport and other strategic initiatives.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has stressed the mutual strength between Turkiye and Azerbaijan, noting that a strong Turkiye equates to a strong Azerbaijan, and vice versa. This sentiment encapsulates the growing synergy between these nations, which is crucial for the continued success of joint initiatives in trade, transport, and regional security.

In conclusion, the development of Azerbaijan's relations with the Turkic States, particularly through initiatives like the Middle Corridor and agreements such as the Shusha Declaration, is transforming the region's economic landscape. As Azerbaijan continues to enhance its role as a transport and trade hub, its efforts to increase trade turnover, strengthen regional cooperation, and connect Central Asia to global markets are set to shape the future of Eurasian trade dynamics.

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