Tokayev: Peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan creates new prospects for East-West connectivity

Kazakhstani President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has proposed jointly developing a strategy for transport connectivity within the framework of CICA.

Tokayev made this statement at the plenary session of the 7th Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA). He noted that the region, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, possesses vast potential in the fields of transport and connectivity.

According to Tokayev, shared corridors are among the most effective tools for building long-term trust between states.

The President of Kazakhstan noted that highways, railways, and seaports unite the economies of countries and their peoples.

Tokayev emphasized that they see the results of visionary leadership in the South Caucasus and welcomed the emerging reconciliation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. According to him, after decades of confrontation, the rapprochement between the two countries opens up new opportunities and creates new prospects for East-West connectivity.

The President of Kazakhstan stated that CICA, possessing strong political will and significant economic potential, has the capability to support major cross-border projects.

According to Tokayev, the proposed strategy will help explore the potential of the region's main international transport routes. These include the "Belt and Road" initiative, the North-South International Transport Corridor, the Middle Corridor, and the TRACECA initiative. (Note: TRACECA is commonly referred to in English contexts regarding this region).

The President of Kazakhstan also stated that energy security is facing serious threats, and supply chain disruptions are occurring with increasing frequency.