Baku: The Middle Corridor is not intended to replace traditional routes, Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Center of Analysis of International Relations and Multiculturalism, said at the 2nd International Conference of Leading National Think Tanks of Turkic States, jointly organized by the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), APA reports. Farid Shafiyev stated that the increase in freight traffic along the Middle Corridor amid the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East has further enhanced the importance of this route.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Middle Corridor does not aim to replace traditional northern and maritime routes. Shafiyev emphasized that while maritime routes will retain their importance, northern routes are expected to resume operations when the Russia-Ukraine war concludes. The primary purpose of the Middle Corridor, he explained, is to fill critical gaps, especially during times of crisis.
The chairman addressed the skepticism that previously surrounded Azerbaijan's oil and gas exports, noting that such doubts have proved unfounded due to recent developments. He highlighted the significant role Azerbaijan's gas supplies play in Europe's energy security.
Shafiyev also discussed the increase in freight transportation along the Middle Corridor, pointing out that the volume transported through the Trans-Caspian International Transport System rose from 2.76 million tons in 2023 to 4.1 million tons in 2025. He emphasized that the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor depends not only on physical infrastructure but also on the efficiency of cargo crossing borders. Digitalization and the simplification of customs procedures are particularly important in this regard, he noted.
The chairman underscored the importance of eliminating bureaucratic obstacles to enhance the efficiency of the Middle Corridor. He also highlighted growing coordination among Turkic states and the implementation of initiatives like the Digital Silk Road project.
Shafiyev mentioned that the Zangezur Corridor could become an additional branch of the Middle Corridor in the future, which is significant not only for transportation but also for the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Finally, he stressed the importance of extending the new route being developed between China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan in Central Asia toward Turkmenistan, the Caspian Sea, and Azerbaijan. In light of the unstable geopolitical situation, he stated that the most stable route, both politically and economically, will be the one passing through the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan aims to encourage the extension of this new branch toward Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.