Luxembourg: At the twenty-first meeting of the Cooperation Council between the European Union (EU) and Kazakhstan, significant strides were made to enhance the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, commonly known as the Middle Corridor, as per a report by Trend News Agency.

According to Trend News Agency, the discussions in Luxembourg on October 14 centered on multiple sectors, with a notable focus on boosting transport connectivity under the framework of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA). The EU particularly praised Kazakhstan for its proactive role during the political launch event of the Middle Corridor held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, earlier this month.

The meeting also witnessed the initialing of a Horizontal Aviation Agreement, which both sides hope to finalize and sign shortly. This development is expected to further enhance the aviation links between Kazakhstan and EU member states, facilitating increased trade and mobility.

The session was chaired by Hungary’s Minist
er for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Peter Szijjártó, representing EU High Representative Josep Borrell. Kazakhstan’s delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu. The discussions also highlighted the recent inauguration of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor Coordination Platform in Turkmenistan, which aims to improve the efficiency of transport routes between Central Asia and the EU.

These discussions and agreements underscore a mutual commitment to deepening economic and strategic ties through improved transport infrastructure, which is pivotal for the economic growth of both regions.