BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 20. Azerbaijan’s
expansion of its port facilities, such as the Baku International
Sea Trade Port, and ongoing upgrades to its rail and road networks
will facilitate this integration, positioning the country as a
crucial gateway for the movement of goods between the two regions,
ECO Secretary General Asad Khan told Trend.
He noted that Azerbaijan's role in strengthening the ECO
transport and logistics infrastructure is pivotal, particularly as
the country serves as a vital connector between Europe, Central
Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia. ''As a strategic transit
hub, Azerbaijan is enhancing regional integration by developing key
transport corridors such as the East–West (Middle
Corridor/Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) and the
North–South corridor. These initiatives are crucial in promoting
economic ties between ECO countries and creating seamless trade
routes between the East and West.
ECO Secretary General stated that Azerbaijan's contribution to
future transport integration projects will continue to play a
significant role in linking the ECO region with Europe. ''The
development of the new Trans-Caspian corridor, for instance, is
expected to further reduce transit times and enhance the flow of
goods between Asia and Europe. Azerbaijan’s expansion of its port
facilities, such as the Baku International Sea Trade Port, and
ongoing upgrades to its rail and road networks will facilitate this
integration, positioning the country as a crucial gateway for the
movement of goods between the two regions.''
According to him, Azerbaijan’s commitment to embracing
technological advancements in transport systems will ensure
smoother, more efficient logistics. The digitalization of customs
and transport processes, particularly through single-window systems
and electronic documentation, will streamline border procedures,
reducing delays and boosting cross-border trade.
''Moreover, the integration of smart logistics solutions, such
as real-time cargo tracking, AI-based route optimization, and
predictive maintenance, will optimize the entire transportation
network, making it more responsive and cost-effective.
Azerbaijan is also taking steps to incorporate sustainability
into its transport infrastructure by investing in green logistics
initiatives, including railway electrification and energy-efficient
technologies. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals
and enhances the region's appeal as a modern and environmentally
responsible transportation corridor,'' Asad Khan concluded.
