EU to support Armenia to strengthen its energy security

At the Tashkent Investors Forum, officials detailed new rail, port, and digital upgrades, stressing the importance of coordinated reforms and harmonized border systems, Euronews writes.

As noted, a new set of infrastructure commitments is set to accelerate development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, the route linking Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

The corridor has become one of the fastest-growing alternatives to traditional East-West trade connections and is seen as a way to reduce exposure to vulnerable or politically constrained routes.

EU officials said that the viability of the Middle Corridor also depends on the role of Azerbaijan and Georgia. Both countries control the maritime and overland links leading to the Black Sea, and both have been expanding freight-handling facilities, rail lines and customs capacities.

European officials pointed to improving relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan as a factor that could unlock new railway alignments over the coming decade, offering more flexibility and reducing congestion on the busiest sections.

New EU-supported initiatives were confirmed in Tashkent.

These include a €15 million program for customs efficiency and logistics harmoniզation; a €10mn partnership with the World Bank for feasibility and environmental studies; a €5mn initiative with the EBRD; and funding for upgrades to the Aktau port and key road corridors.

Support was also confirmed for the Caucasus transmission network, which will strengthen Armenia’s energy security and expand regional electricity trade.