Access to foreign markets with competitive products, active participation in global socio-economic processes, and the protection of national interests have become necessary conditions for the existence and sustainable development of individual states in the modern era. The seamless mobility of goods and services, flexible adaptation to changes within the global economy, and securing a position within these dynamics offer states certain advantages and promise significant dividends.

Commenting on the latest report from the international rating agency Moody's, the Head of the Strategic Planning Department at the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication (CAERC), Doctor of Economic Sciences Agil Asadov, emphasized that transport corridors and connections act as the driving forces of modern, dynamic progress. In this regard, the Republic of Azerbaijan benefits from its strategic geographical location and the well-planned policies implemented over the years.

Agil Asadov highlighted that the national transport system, second only to the oil sector, remains the most promising sector for Azerbaijan's economic development. This is primarily due to the country’s strategic location at the crossroads of international transport corridors and the purposeful initiatives and projects that have been implemented since 1998. Notably, Azerbaijan's role as a vital transport and logistics hub began with the international conference held in Baku in 1998, which focused on the restoration of the Great Silk Road. The decisions made under the leadership of the head of state during this period are now proving their historical significance, underscoring the foresight and long-term vision behind Azerbaijan's transformation into a critical transport and logistics center between Europe and Asia.

The Head of the Department further noted the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor, a topic discussed extensively during the informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held on July 6 in Shusha. Initiated by President Ilham Aliyev, the summit, under the theme “Building a Sustainable Future through Transport, Connectivity, and Climate Action”, reinforced the Middle Corridor's prospects. The Karabakh Declaration, signed at the summit, highlights the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route as a significant connection between Europe, Turkey, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and China. This route fosters cooperation among member states by strengthening regional integration, optimizing transport operations, streamlining customs procedures, and ensuring accelerated digitalization. The declaration also outlines key projects, including the modernization of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line, the exploration of vast renewable energy potential in Turkic states, and initiatives such as the interconnection of the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. These measures showcase Azerbaijan's role as a pivotal transport and logistics hub.

Reports from prominent international organizations further corroborate the socio-economic and strategic importance of the Middle Corridor. The World Bank's report titled “Middle Trade and Transport Corridor: Policies and Investments to Triple Freight Volumes and Halve Travel Time by 2030”, published in November 2023, highlights the corridor's transformative role in regional trade and connectivity. Similarly, Moody's International Rating Agency recently reaffirmed the growing influence of the Middle Corridor as a critical transport hub connecting Europe and Asia. According to Moody's, the corridor’s expansion is boosting the economic prospects of the region, with its positive impact expected to materialize progressively over time.

Agil Asadov elaborated that increased activity along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, a key trade route linking China and the European Union, will facilitate the diversification of regional economies. This diversification, in turn, will enhance Azerbaijan's resilience to external and internal shocks while improving its investment climate and credit profile.

Moody’s also underscores the significance of large-scale construction and reconstruction efforts in Azerbaijan’s liberated regions, further strengthening the country’s economic outlook. Substantial capital investments and construction projects are underway in these territories, attracting foreign investors. Key developments include transportation infrastructure—such as highways and airports—and production facilities like agro-parks and industrial zones. The government's strategy to establish highly digitalized, net-zero carbon emission zones has drawn considerable interest from international investors.

In conclusion, Agil Asadov noted that the Middle Corridor is more than just a transportation route; it serves as a catalyst for economic diversification and investment attractiveness. Most importantly, it is a value chain that connects the Turkic states, collectively boasting a GDP exceeding 1 trillion US dollars. By fostering cooperation and connectivity, the Middle Corridor contributes to the sustainable economic development and well-being of the region's populations.