Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan expand strategic transport, logistics ties Photo

Rauf Valiyev, Chairman of Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), met with a delegation from Uzbekistan led by Bekzod Kholmatov, Director of the Centre for Transport and Logistics Development, during his visit to Azerbaijan.

Mehman Mehdiyev, Head of ASCO’s Press Service, shared that the delegation included representatives from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport and Uzbekistan Railways, Caliber.Az reports.

During the meeting, they were briefed on Azerbaijan’s key transport and logistics initiatives, as well as ASCO’s activities.

The discussions focused on the importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (Middle Corridor). Special attention was given to enhancing Uzbek-Azerbaijani transport links across the Caspian Sea. Efforts to address challenges in the ferry transport sector were also highlighted.

Note that, the “Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping” Closed Joint-Stock Company (ASCO) was established following the merger of Azerbaijan's two largest fleets: the Azerbaijan State Caspian Sea Shipping Company and the Caspian Sea Oil Fleet of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic. This merger, formalised by Presidential Decrees No.6 (October 22, 2013) and No.213 (January 10, 2014), aimed to enhance Azerbaijan's maritime transportation, increase its competitiveness, and optimise the management of state-owned shipping companies.

ASCO’s fleet consists of both merchant and offshore support vessels, including 51 merchant vessels, such as tankers, ferries, and cargo ships, alongside 162 offshore support vessels like crane ships, supply vessels, and firefighting boats. Additionally, the company operates two shipyards.

ASCO plays a vital role in the Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia (TRACECA), facilitating marine transport for goods and passengers across the Trans-Caspian Sea and providing essential offshore support for the oil and gas sectors.

The company’s roots trace back to the mid-19th century, when the growth of the oil industry in Baku spurred the development of maritime transport in the Caspian Sea. The founding of the Caspian Shipping Company in 1858 marked the beginning of a long history, with significant advancements in shipbuilding and international operations over the years.

Today, ASCO continues to uphold its commitment to high standards in maritime services, driving the growth of Azerbaijan’s shipping industry.

By Aghakazim Guliyev