BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 31. The launch of a
dedicated block train between the ports of Poti and Baku marks an
important step toward improving intermodal connectivity along the
Middle Corridor, Ivane Abashidze, Director of the Georgian Maritime
Transport Agency, wrote on his social media page, Trend reports.
He noted that the first block train arrived at the Poti
terminal, and the event was marked by a ceremony attended by the
management of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC and Georgian Railways JSC.
He noted that the project demonstrates a high level of bilateral
coordination in implementing the initiative.
“The block train will operate regularly, which will
significantly reduce transit time between the two ports and
simplify container logistics. It will ensure rail transportation of
empty containers along the Poti-Baku-Poti route, helping to reduce
pressure on highways and deliver environmental benefits through
lower emissions.
The initiative increases the safety, efficiency, and
predictability of container transportation within the Middle
Corridor, making the route more attractive and competitive for
shippers,” the publication said.
On January 30, a ceremony dedicated to the departure of the
Poti-Baku express block train was held in the Georgian port of
Poti, with the participation of the management of Azerbaijan
Railways CJSC and Georgian Railways JSC.
The significance of launching the new express train service was
emphasized at the event, with officials highlighting that this
initiative would not only streamline transit times but also reduce
associated costs, including those for cargo storage and empty
container handling at the terminal.
The block train, operating on the Poti-Baku route, will link the
Black Sea ports with Azerbaijan’s ports and terminals, offering a
simplified logistics solution. This service will enable cargo
owners to receive containers from Poti to Baku and vice versa at
scheduled times, ensuring timely deliveries without delays.
The Middle Corridor, also known as the Trans-Caspian
International Transport Route (TITR), is a transport and trade
route connecting Asia with Europe and serving as an alternative to
the traditional Northern and Southern corridors. The route begins
in China, passes through Central Asian countries such as
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, crosses the Caspian Sea
via Azerbaijan, and continues through Georgia and Türkiye before
reaching Europe. This overland route allows cargo to bypass longer
maritime routes and provides a direct connection between East Asia,
including China, and Europe.
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