Brussels played host to the Global Gateway Investment Forum on January 29-30, 2024, dedicated to bolstering EU-Central Asia Transport Connectivity. The forum aimed at advancing the transformation of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) into a cutting-edge, competitive, and sustainable pathway linking Europe and Central Asia.
The event convened influential representatives from Central Asian nations, EU member states, partner countries of the Trans-Caspian route, international financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders. Noteworthy sessions, such as “Soft connectivity II: Making the Corridor Work: Interoperability and Harmonisation for Connectivity,” delved into discussions led by Gaidar Abdikerimov, Secretary-General of the ALE “International Association ‘Trans-Caspian International Transport Route’”, emphasizing the need for active integration of EU and Central Asian transport systems.
Significantly, a pivotal memorandum of cooperation was inked between the Association and DB E&C during the forum. Geared towards fostering trade and economic relations in the Eurasian region, this agreement aims to enhance transportation along crucial transport routes. The forum also made a groundbreaking announcement, with international partners pledging a substantial 10 billion euros for the development of sustainable transport links in Central Asia. Notably, the European Commission and the European Investment Bank committed an additional 1.5 billion euros towards this transformative initiative.
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