World Bank backs Azerbaijan’s push to become regional transport hub photo

The World Bank has expressed its readiness to support Azerbaijan’s efforts to strengthen its position as a regional hub for transport connectivity, as well as to modernise logistics and energy systems.

According to Caliber.Az, the World Bank’s Regional Director for Infrastructure in Europe and Central Asia, Charles Cormier, shared the message on social media following his visit to Azerbaijan earlier this week.

Cormier said he met with Azerbaijani partners to discuss both ongoing and future initiatives in transport, energy, urban development, and regional integration.

He noted that particular focus was placed on the expansion of the Baku International Sea Trade Port, along with upgrades to railways and logistics infrastructure, describing the project as one that improves cargo efficiency and strengthens links between Europe and Asia.

The discussions also covered the development of the Trans-Caspian trade route, widely known as the Middle Corridor, the establishment of green energy corridors, and efforts to reinforce regional power networks through increased trade in gas and electricity.

In the energy sector, Cormier said the talks addressed modernisation of Azerbaijan’s power system and the integration of new renewable energy capacity under the AZURE project, which received approval in 2025.

In addition, the sides reviewed the implementation of a government program aimed at improving urban mobility in Baku and explored potential cooperation in the field of energy efficiency.

Cormier thanked Azerbaijan’s partners for the constructive engagement and reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to continued support.

"We look forward to building on the momentum and supporting Azerbaijan’s efforts to strengthen logistics, promote urban mobility, modernise energy systems, and expand sustainable infrastructure that connects communities, markets, and countries across the region,” he wrote.

By Tamilla Hasanova