US pundit: Azerbaijan plays crucial role in Trans-Caspian connectivity

Azerbaijan is playing an invaluable role in strengthening connectivity between Europe and Central Asia through the Trans-Caspian route, according to Eric Rudenshiold, Director of Research at the Caspian Policy Center.

Rudenshiold described Azerbaijan as the backbone of the Trans-Caspian corridor, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

“Azerbaijan not only enables the flow of goods across the Caspian Sea, but also links up to the Black Sea through Georgia and Türkiye,” he said.

He stressed Baku's leadership in driving the corridor forward, both in freight transport and energy supply. “Azerbaijan is a key player in the oil and gas sector and serves as a stable energy supplier to Europe, helping reduce the continent’s reliance on Russia,” Rudenshiold noted.

Rudenshiold also highlighted Azerbaijan’s strategic cooperation with Central Asian countries in the field of green energy, calling the development of sustainable energy projects “vital for the region.”

Regarding logistics and infrastructure, he said Azerbaijan is a pivotal component of the so-called Middle Corridor. “All freight from Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan is concentrated at the Port of Baku, whose expansion is enabling faster and more efficient transit,” he said.

Rudenshiold added that a peace deal with Armenia could open the door to a new railway line, potentially doubling freight volumes along the corridor. “By creating new opportunities not only for itself but also for neighbouring states, Azerbaijan is positioning itself at the forefront of regional development,” he concluded.

By Aghakazim Guliyev