President Tokayev Proposes Joint Program to Boost Investment and Infrastructure in Eastern Segment of North–South Corridor

Astana, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan has proposed the launch of a joint investment and infrastructure development program for the eastern part of the North–South international transport corridor, aimed at strengthening connectivity and enhancing regional economic integration.

Speaking at the 2nd Central Asia–Russia Summit, President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan’s commitment to building modern, safe, and sustainable transport and logistics infrastructure across the region and the broader Eurasian space.

“Kazakhstan has a task to continue its active efforts to establish modern, safe, sustainable transport and logistics infrastructure of the region and the Eurasian space as a whole,”
the President stated, according to Akorda.

Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan plans to repair 11,000 kilometers and construct up to 5,000 kilometers of new railways by 2030, significantly expanding its transport capacity. He added that concrete steps are being taken to boost the capacity of the Western Europe–Western China highway corridor, with the section from Kyzylorda to the Russian border set to be upgraded to a four-lane road by 2030.

The President further highlighted ongoing collaboration with Russian and Turkmen partners on developing the eastern segment of the North–South transport corridor, which has already seen a notable rise in freight traffic. In 2024, cargo flow along the route reached nearly 2.5 million tons, and there are plans to double its capacity by 2027, he said.

To fully realize the potential of this vital route, Tokayev proposed the creation of a joint program aimed at attracting investment and infrastructure financing for the corridor’s eastern section. He also urged the involvement of international financial institutions, development banks, and investment funds in the initiative.

Highlighting broader connectivity prospects, the Kazakh leader pointed to promising opportunities in developing transport corridors through Afghanistan toward South Asian markets, which could further enhance regional trade and logistics.

To ensure effective coordination of these large-scale efforts, President Tokayev suggested establishing a Council for the Development of the Eurasian Transport Network within the framework of the North–South corridor.

Earlier, Tokayev noted that Russia accounts for one-third of the total trade turnover of Central Asian countries, which surpassed US$50 billion in 2024, marking a 20% increase. He added that Kazakhstan contributes over half of this trade volume, with bilateral trade reaching US$28 billion last year.

The Kazakh President’s proposal underscores Kazakhstan’s growing role as a regional transport and logistics hub and its strategic vision to enhance Eurasian connectivity and economic cooperation.