Munich: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, along with First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and Leyla Aliyeva, participated in a panel discussion titled 'Open Corridor Policy? Deepening Trans-Caspian Cooperation' at the Munich Security Conference. The panel, moderated by Helga Maria Schmid, focused on the opportunities for future Europe-Asia trade and the role of Azerbaijan in regional connectivity.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan's investments in physical infrastructure, such as seaports, railroads, highways, and air cargo transportation, to position itself as a regional transportation hub. He highlighted the country's strategic location between Europe and Asia and the record transit numbers achieved last year. Aliyev also discussed ongoing projects, including the construction and renovation of railroads and the building of a fiber optic cable under the Caspian Sea, aimed at strengthening regional connectivity.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos acknowledged the cooperation between Armenia and Azerbaijan in creating a global route and expressed gratitude to President Aliyev for his support of the European Union's plans. She emphasized the potential for increased transit volumes via the Trans-Caspian route and the attractiveness of such transport routes for businesses.
Wang Huiyao, founder and president of the Center for China and Globalization, discussed China's 'Belt and Road' initiative and its relevance to the Trans-Caspian region. Huiyao noted China's efforts to reduce obstacles to connectivity and praised Azerbaijan's role in facilitating regional cooperation.
The panel also addressed the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), introduced last August, which aims to enhance connectivity and peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. President Aliyev expressed hope for a peace agreement with Armenia, contingent upon constitutional amendments in Armenia. He underscored the importance of connectivity projects in fostering long-term peace and integration in the South Caucasus.
The discussion included insights from European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Wang Huiyao on the future of the Middle Corridor and its potential to surpass the Northern Route in cargo volume. Participants highlighted the role of U.S. interest in the corridor and the potential impact of geopolitical dynamics on its development.
The panel concluded with questions from the audience, addressing topics such as customs procedures, regional cooperation, and Azerbaijan's diplomatic relations. President Aliyev reiterated Azerbaijan's commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering regional cooperation for mutual benefit.