Thanks to the development of connectivity, we are moving from the status of a landlocked country to a state connected to global markets through transport corridors.
This was stated by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Arman Issetov at the conference launching the "Connectivity Agenda" platform in Brussels.
According to him, the development of transport, energy and digital connectivity is becoming one of the key areas of cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union.
He noted that the participating countries are expanding the route's capacity, modernizing infrastructure, and digitalizing customs and administrative procedures.
As a result, delivery times for goods between the country and European states via the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM, Middle Corridor) have already been reduced from 38 to 14–18 days. According to Issetov, the goal now is transit in 10–12 days.
Transport volumes along the route continue to grow, but fully unlocking the corridor's potential will require further investment, coordination among all participants, and close interaction with international financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector, he believes.
Special attention should be paid to energy cooperation and digitalization. Kazakhstan views these areas as important elements for strengthening regional resilience and economic ties.
"Reducing digital barriers and developing compatible and secure digital infrastructure should become central elements of our future cooperation," Issetov said.
He added that Central Asia is becoming an increasingly integrated partner of the European Union, and strengthening connectivity will contribute to economic growth, resilience, and stability in the region.