The Middle Corridor is among the key routes for transport connectivity between the Caucasus and Central Asia, according to Subir Lall, Deputy Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
"However, there is a whole range of economic corridors linking East and West that will play an important role in integrating the region with Asia, the Middle East, Europe and other markets. Two aspects need to be considered here. The first is 'hard' infrastructure — that is, roads and transport links. The second, no less important, is 'soft' infrastructure," he said.
Lall noted that excellent roads can be built, but if cargo is delayed at borders for several days because of customs rules and clearance procedures, this will slow the development of transport connectivity both within the region and beyond it.
"It is therefore crucial to promote the development of economic corridors passing through the region in such a way that all countries can take part in this process and benefit from it. At the same time, policymakers need to pay particular attention to regulation, the compatibility of relevant rules and their harmonisation," he added.
