Nargiza Umarova examines Uzbekistan’s proactive efforts in shaping a new transport architecture among the Turkic states. She highlights how the country’s strategic location and policy initiatives have enabled it to integrate into the evolving Eurasian transport corridors, particularly in light of the disruptions caused by sanctions on Russia. Uzbekistan has taken advantage of the shift towards the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), positioning itself as a key transit hub between China, Europe, and South Asia. By aligning with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and launching cooperative projects such as CASCA+, Uzbekistan aims to enhance connectivity and expand its export and trade networks.
Ms. Umarova underscores the economic benefits of these transport initiatives, noting that Uzbekistan’s international cargo transport reached approximately 60 million tons in 2024, with the European market playing an increasingly significant role. The country benefits from preferential trade agreements such as GSP+, allowing duty-free access for over 6,000 types of goods to the EU. The CASCA+ corridor, connecting Central Asia with the South Caucasus and Türkiye, is presented as a strategic alternative to the Middle Corridor, offering more efficient transit routes and lower logistical costs. The author also highlights Uzbekistan’s growing economic ties with Türkiye, including trade and investment projects worth billions of dollars, facilitated by measures such as customs tariff reductions and digitalization of transport services.
Additionally, she discusses Uzbekistan’s diversification strategy beyond the Turkic states, particularly its engagement with Iran. She describes the launch of the Türkiye-Iran-Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan railway in 2022 as a key step in enhancing Central Asia’s connectivity to the Middle East and Europe. This initiative, along with the proposed Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan-Iran-Türkiye corridor, demonstrates Tashkent’s commitment to expanding trade routes and securing alternative transit pathways. The expert notes that these efforts reduce reliance on traditional corridors through Kazakhstan and Russia, making Uzbekistan a crucial player in the regional and global supply chain.
In conclusion, Ms. Umarova argues that Uzbekistan’s transport strategy has a multiplier effect, benefiting not only the country itself but also strengthening the OTS and enhancing regional integration. By prioritizing infrastructure development and fostering cooperation among Turkic states and external partners, Tashkent is establishing itself as a key driver of connectivity in Eurasia. She suggests that Uzbekistan’s active participation in international transport projects contributes to the OTS’s growing influence, while also reinforcing the country’s role in global trade.
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* 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.
