BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The
commissioning of new locomotives will facilitate the expansion of
Azerbaijan's transit capabilities along international transport
corridors and enable more efficient organization of freight
transportation, Director of the CASPIA (Center for Analysis of
Strategic Policy and International Affairs),
Orkhan Yolchuyev, told reporters on the sidelines of the
presentation ceremony of new freight locomotives acquired from
China, Trend's
correspondent reports from the event.


He noted that, against the backdrop of shifts in global
transport and supply chains, the introduction of these seven new
locomotives would enhance Azerbaijan's competitiveness within
international transport corridors.


"Several international transport corridors pass through
Azerbaijan, with the East-West and North-South corridors being the
most actively utilized. The acquisition of new locomotives not only
boosts the shunting capabilities of Azerbaijan Railways but also
facilitates more seamless freight transportation," Yolchuyev
said.


According to him, in the current geopolitical climate—and
particularly against the backdrop of uncertainty observed across
the Eurasian region—stability and predictability are just as
important to large businesses and freight carriers as low route
costs.


"In this regard, the projects implemented by Azerbaijan,
including the acquisition of seven new locomotives, will enhance
the country's role as a transit nation and logistics hub within the
Eurasian space," he emphasized.







Yolchuyev noted that, based on forecasts by international
institutions—including the World Bank—freight volumes along the
Middle Corridor are expected to at least triple by 2030.


"This indicates that Azerbaijan must be prepared for rising
cargo volumes. The purchase of new locomotives is part of this
preparation. Discussions are underway regarding the acquisition of
another 14 such locomotives in the next phase. Ultimately, these
measures will further boost Azerbaijan's competitiveness and
resilience as a transit country and logistics hub along both the
Middle Corridor and the North-South route," he explained.


Yolchuyev added that Azerbaijan is making steady progress toward
becoming a logistics hub. "Azerbaijan is becoming one of Eurasia's
key transport hubs in terms of rail, road, and air transport,"
noted the director of the CASPIA Center.