BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 15. The Middle
Corridor is one of the key routes for transport connectivity in the
Caucasus and Central Asia, Subir Lall, Deputy Director of the
Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International
Monetary Fund (IMF), told Trend during a briefing.
“However, there are a number of economic corridors linking the
East and the West that will play an important role in the region’s
integration with Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and other markets.
Two aspects must be taken into account here. The first is ‘hard’
infrastructure, that is, roads and transportation links. The
second, equally important aspect is ‘soft’ infrastructure,” he
said.
Subir Lall noted that while excellent roads can be built, if
cargo is delayed at borders for several days due to customs
regulations and clearance procedures, this will slow the
development of transport connectivity both within the region and
beyond.
“Therefore, it is extremely important to promote the development
of economic corridors passing through the region in such a way that
all countries can participate in this process and reap its
benefits.
At the same time, policymakers must pay special attention to
regulatory frameworks, the compatibility of relevant rules, and
their harmonization,” he added.
