Kazakh President Tokayev proposes unified digital transport map for CIS

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has proposed the development of a unified digital transport and logistics map for the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Speaking at the CIS Heads of State Summit in Dushanbe, Tokayev said that to fully unlock the transport potential of all their states, it is necessary to develop modern infrastructure, Caliber.Az reports, citing the official website of the Kazakh president.

“I propose considering the creation of a unified digital transport and logistics map of the Commonwealth. It will integrate national infrastructure plans and form a cohesive space of transport connectivity, creating conditions for attracting large-scale investments,” Tokayev stated.

He recalled that preparations for Kazakhstan’s proposed concept to link the main transport arteries across CIS member states are nearing completion.

“For effective cargo flow management, cost reduction, and risk minimisation, this document should be supplemented with provisions for the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies,” the Kazakh president noted.

Tokayev emphasised that productive trade and economic cooperation are only possible with well-functioning transport corridors, adding that the vast CIS region has traditionally served as a bridge between Europe and Asia, playing a special role in the global transport and logistics system.

In addition to transport initiatives, Tokayev proposed establishing a CIS Creative Industries Association under the CIS Interstate Fund for Humanitarian Cooperation.

He highlighted that Kazakhstan’s creative sector alone contributes over $2 billion and employs 143,000 people, emphasising the sector’s economic and diplomatic impact. The association would aim to support young talent, foster joint projects, and develop a creative economy ecosystem, combining tradition with innovation.

Tokayev also reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the CIS’s international reputation, citing initiatives such as granting observer status to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), launching the “CIS Plus” cooperation format, and welcoming Turkmenistan’s appointment as CIS chair in 2026.

He concluded that through these joint efforts, the CIS can become a space of creativity, progress, and new opportunities.

By Jeyhun Aghazada