Tokayev emphasized the work carried out within the union on transport and communications and transportation and logistics with third countries.
Given the vast geographical coverage of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the development of infrastructure connectivity remains one of the core priorities, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at a plenary session of the second Eurasian Economic Forum on May 24 in Moscow in what would give further boost India’s focus on connectivity in Eurasia.
Tokayev emphasized the work carried out within the union on transport and communications and transportation and logistics with third countries. Tokayev specifically mentioned connectivity via INSTC that connects India with Russia via Iran. Kazakhstan is also interested in connecting with Chabahar for access to the Indian Ocean Region.
“Considering the rather rapidly changing picture of global commodity flows, it is now essential to monitor and, if possible, create trends throughout the region,” Tokayev told the forum, themed Eurasian Integration in a Multipolar World.
The President underscored the importance of developing the North-South Transport Corridor as a critical element of the “new global logistics,” consistent with the latitudinal Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR).
A significant synergy of both routes is not only a growth point for the industry, transport and the economy, Tokayev said. These routes can also fundamentally change the level of interaction and cooperation within Eurasia.
Apart from physical infrastructure, Tokayev noted the need to focus on soft infrastructure, particularly digitalization, simplifying customs administration, and reducing the administrative burden.
“We are forming a new transport network for Eurasia, which has never existed before,” the President said.
Tokayev called the collaboration with China, Egypt, India, Iran, Israel, Serbia, Vietnam, and other partners an essential indicator of the EAEU’s maturity and its trade and economic attractiveness on its way to increasing recognition and influence in the international community.
“Since last year, we have started negotiating free trade agreements with Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates. I consider these areas fundamentally important. Therefore, I expect prompt and responsible work from the Eurasian Commission,” the Kazakhstan President said.
