In an interview with AZERTAC, Khayotjon Ibragimov discusses the growing strategic importance of Azerbaijan for Central Asia’s connectivity and economic development. He argues that the Middle Corridor is moving beyond political declarations towards practical economic implementation, offering Central Asian states more diversified access to European and global markets through the Caspian Sea and the South Caucasus. In this context, Azerbaijan is presented not simply as a transit country, but as a strategic partner whose infrastructure, including the Baku International Sea Trade Port and the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway, is essential to the viability of the Trans-Caspian route.
Ibragimov identifies several practical priorities for strengthening the corridor, including the creation of a single digital transport corridor, harmonised electronic freight documentation, automated customs procedures, a unified multimodal operator and more predictable tariff policies. He also stresses the importance of expanding the merchant fleet, developing new logistics centres and linking the Middle Corridor with emerging transport arteries such as the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. According to the expert, these measures could reduce logistical bottlenecks and make the route more commercially competitive.
The interview also examines the potential of a broader C6+1 format involving the five Central Asian states and Azerbaijan. Ibragimov argues that such a framework could strengthen the region’s collective negotiating position with the European Union, China and international investors, while facilitating cooperation in transport, energy, trade and regional security. Particular attention is given to possible electricity links across the Caspian and Black Seas, the export of Central Asian green energy to European markets, joint processing of raw materials, and stronger coordination in protecting critical infrastructure. He concludes that deeper integration with Azerbaijan could contribute to the formation of a more resilient and self-sustaining economic space in Central Asia.
* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.
