February news on the Silk Road

Kazakhstan targets 74M tons of transit cargo by 2030, boosting key routes like the MiddleCorridor & North-South Corridor. Rail & road infrastructure upgrades, China-Kazakhstan agreements, and tariff discounts aim to enhance logistics. 

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed a historic deal finalizing their 970 km border, ending years of disputes. The agreement also covers energy, water resources, and cross-border roads, paving the way for stability and cooperation. 

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan have reached an agreement to build the Hairatan–Herat railway. Uzbekistan will fund the feasibility study, with construction set to begin soon. The project will boost regional trade, linking Central Asia to the Middle East. 

Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan will switch to full electronic permits for international freight transport from Sept 1. The move, enabled by the e-Permit system under the Organization of Turkic States, aims to streamline cross-border logistics.

On March 31, the leaders of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan will meet in Khujand for their first trilateral summit. Key topics include regional cooperation, economic ties, and the Kyrgyz-Tajik border agreement.

Azerbaijan has officially joined NATO’s Maritime Security Excellence Center (MARSEC COE). A technical agreement was signed at NATO's Allied Command Transformation event with Portugal, Romania, Türkiye, and Greece. Azerbaijan’s naval representative will serve at the center for three years. 

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan will launch an industrial trade and logistics complex at their shared border. Kazakh President Tokayev discussed the project with Kyrgyz Cabinet Chairman Kasymaliev, emphasizing stronger trade and transit ties. 

Sorce: The Caspian Post