Deputy minister: TITR not just corridor, but strategic development direction for Kazakhstan

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route has become one of the most important instruments of regional integration, and Kazakhstan views its development as a strategic priority, Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Issetov said at the launch conference of the Connectivity Agenda Platform in Brussels, Report informs.

"Thanks to the development of connectivity, we are moving from the status of a landlocked country to a state connected to global markets through transport corridors," the deputy minister said.

According to him, the development of transport, energy, and digital connectivity is becoming one of the key areas of cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union.

He noted that participating countries are expanding the route's capacity, modernizing infrastructure, and digitalizing customs and administrative procedures.

As a result, cargo delivery times between the country and European countries along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, Middle Corridor) have already been reduced from 38 to 14-18 days. According to Issetov, the current goal is transit within 10-12 days.

Transport volumes along the route continue to grow, but realizing the corridor's full potential will require further investment, coordination among all participants, and close collaboration with international financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector, he believes.

Particular attention should be paid to energy cooperation and digitalization. Kazakhstan views these areas as important elements in strengthening regional resilience and economic ties.

"Reducing digital barriers and developing interoperable and secure digital infrastructure should become central elements of our future cooperation," Issetov stated.

He added that Central Asia is becoming an increasingly integrated partner of the European Union, and that strengthening connectivity will contribute to economic growth, resilience, and stability in the region.