Central Asia and the Caucasus are emerging as a vital link in the "Middle Corridor," according to the IMF.

During a roundtable discussion on November 20, Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), highlighted the critical role of Central Asia and the Caucasus as a strategic trade corridor connecting East and West.

Geopolitical challenges have transformed the region into a major trade route from China and Asia to Europe and the Middle East. Azour welcomed regional initiatives aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and integration, including improvements in transport logistics and joint projects in energy and infrastructure.

He emphasized the importance of strengthening connectivity among the countries in the region in trade logistics to accelerate the flow of goods. Regional initiatives in energy, renewable resources, and the construction of shared infrastructure are also viewed positively.

"Middle Corridor": A Key Route for Economic Integration.

The regional transport route "Middle Corridor," which passes through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, and Azerbaijan, is a vital element for economic competitiveness. It includes a railway connection from China to Kazakhstan, Aktau, and Baku. There is also a potential southern branch through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, which, if implemented, would provide an alternative route to Europe, bypassing Kazakhstan, and enabling the use of Turkmenistan's seaports.

The implementation of the railway branch from China to Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan would significantly enhance the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor. The Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan and Georgia, Kairat Osmonaliev, underscored the advantages of this route, allowing access to Europe without passing through Kazakhstan and opening up the possibility for ferry services to Astrakhan.