BAKU, Azerbaijan, September
25. The competitiveness of the Middle Corridor
must be viewed from a comprehensive perspective, Deputy Minister of
Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan Perhat Yagshiev said at the
panel discussion titled “The Middle Corridor: Regional Trade,
Connectivity and Value Chains,” within the framework of the 2nd
Azerbaijan International Investment Forum held in Baku today,
Trend's
correspondent reports from the event.
He noted that it is not merely a matter of developing individual
infrastructure-related sectors, but rather of creating a unified,
coordinated, and predictable transport and logistics system.
"Regarding physical infrastructure, the future development and
modernization of railway and road routes, ports, terminals, and
logistics centers must be ensured. Particular attention must be
paid to guaranteeing sufficient throughput capacity across all
sections of the route.
The speed and predictability of transportation must be enhanced.
For businesses, the ability to accurately forecast not only
transportation costs but also delivery times is crucial. This
entails harmonizing tariff policies, schedules, and cargo handling
procedures, as well as continuing efforts to foster interaction
among all operators along the route," he explained.
The deputy minister added that the creation of a unified digital
space, the implementation of electronic document management, the
provision of advance information to customs authorities, and the
integration of information systems across ports, railways, and
other stakeholders will significantly reduce cargo transit
times.
"For its part, Turkmenistan regards the development of maritime,
rail, road, and digital infrastructure as a crucial component of
enhancing the efficiency of international transport corridors. I am
confident that the coordinated efforts of all states and market
participants will enable the Middle Corridor to become a
sustainable, efficient, and competitive trade artery," he
emphasized.
The second Azerbaijan International Investment Forum is being
held in Baku.
The two-day forum is organized by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of
Economy and its subordinate Azerbaijan Export and Investment
Promotion Agency (AZPROMO), in strategic partnership with The
European House – Ambrosetti.
Plenary and panel sessions at the event will address strategic
issues including the Middle Corridor, energy and the green
transition, artificial intelligence and digital transformation,
infrastructure, industry and free economic zones, critical raw
materials, agribusiness, financial cooperation, small and
medium-sized business development, tourism, real estate and
investment in human capital.
