Samad Bashirli: Azerbaijan has become one of key trade hubs of Middle Corridor

Azerbaijan has become one of the key trade and transport hubs of the Middle Corridor, according to Deputy Economy Minister Samad Bashirli, as quoted by Report.

Speaking at the event "Strengthening Trade Solutions for Regional Connectivity," held as part of the 51st Annual Meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Baku, Bashirli said regional trade integration remains one of the main drivers of sustainable and inclusive economic growth among the bank's member countries.

"Despite the region's significant trade potential, small and medium-sized enterprises continue to face a number of structural constraints. Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan serves as a natural bridge between Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and broader international markets. By offering opportunities that extend beyond the size of its domestic market, Azerbaijan has evolved into a strategic platform for regional connectivity and economic cooperation," he said.

Bashirli emphasized that Azerbaijan is one of the key participants in the Middle Corridor and occupies an important place in the emerging East–West trade and transport architecture.

"Major investments in transport infrastructure, logistics centers, ports, railways, and digital connectivity have strengthened Azerbaijan"s position as a regional transit and trade hub," he added.