The president of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has proposed integrating the Middle Corridor with the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project.

“Implementation is beginning on a large-scale highway project connecting China with the Caspian Sea and onward to European markets. I am convinced that the comprehensive modernization of Kazakhstan’s transport infrastructure will contribute to enhancing the transit role of the entire region. Particular importance is attached to the development of the Caspian International Transport Route. Our transport infrastructure serves as clear evidence of its success. This is the route we frequently refer to as the ‘Middle Corridor.”’ Tokayev stated at the 8th consultative meeting of the heads of state of Azerbaijan and Central Asia, held in Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijani state-run AZERTAC news agency reports.

“Although the North-South route in cooperation with Russia holds particular relevance for Kazakhstan, World Bank estimates suggest that, with the implementation of all established infrastructure goals, cargo traffic across the Caspian could increase fourfold by 2040.

“I believe that we could discuss, at least at the expert level for now, the integration of the Middle Corridor with the TRIPP transport initiative, which would expand the existing potential and serve the long-term interests of all our states,” the president of Kazakhstan noted.