BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 2. The European Union
(EU) and Uzbekistan are actively collaborating to enhance transport
and logistics connections, specifically aimed at establishing and
sustaining trade corridors between Uzbekistan and Europe, a
spokesperson from the EU Commission told Trend.
The spokesperson highlighted that a crucial focus for both
parties is the advancement of the Trans-Caspian International
Transport Route (TITR, Middle Corridor), which plays a pivotal role
in the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy. The TITR, a contemporary and
versatile corridor, seeks to boost connectivity between Europe and
Central Asia, fostering economic growth, trade integration, and
collaboration among the involved nations.
“Given its strategic location at the heart of Central Asia and
its strong economic ties to neighboring countries, Uzbekistan plays
a vital role in the success of the Middle Corridor,” the
spokesperson said.
A 2023 EU-funded study by the European Bank for Reconstruction
and Development (EBRD) identified 33 infrastructure projects and
seven soft infrastructure initiatives essential for enhancing
transport connectivity between Europe and Central Asia. The study
highlighted eight major infrastructure projects based in
Uzbekistan, which include crucial rail and road links along with
logistics centers. These projects require 18.5 billion euros in
investments.
The spokesperson further emphasized the EU’s commitment to
driving the TITR’s development by creating the TITR Coordination
Platform, which was formally launched at the political level in
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, in October 2024. The platform brings
together donors, investors, stakeholders, and governments,
including Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport, to align strategies
and advance practical steps. “We have been working closely with the
Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan to discuss key projects,
organize workshops, and promote dialogue among stakeholders to
ensure concrete progress,” the spokesperson remarked.
The spokesperson pointed out that alongside prioritizing hard
infrastructure, the EU understands that soft connectivity—like
trade facilitation, customs harmonization, and digital solutions—is
crucial for the success of the TITR. The EU has launched a 30
million euro regional transport program aimed at lending a helping
hand to Uzbekistan and other Central Asian nations. The program
will also provide financial support for groundwork studies aimed at
upcoming infrastructure projects.
“The EU’s efforts reflect our strategic commitment to unlocking
the TITR’s massive economic potential while also helping Uzbekistan
achieve its regional and global trade goals,” the spokesperson
concluded.
