Dushanbe, 7 September 2024 (TDI): The United States has voiced strong support for Tajikistan’s participation in the Trans-Caspian trade route, a vital corridor connecting China to Europe via Central Asia, avoiding Russia.
The announcement came from U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan, Manuel Micaller, during an interview with Tajik state media.
“We continue to advocate for Tajikistan’s participation in the Trans-Caspian trade route, which will link Central Asia with the Caucasus and European markets,” he said.
Through the C5+1 diplomatic platform, bringing together the U.S. and five Central Asian partners, we aim to enhance cooperation and facilitate access to global markets,” Ambassador Micaller added.
U.S. backs Tajikistan’s participation in Trans-Caspian trade route, bypassing Russia
The United States, as announced by U.S. Ambassador Manuel Micaller, has expressed strong support for Tajikistan’s involvement in the Trans-Caspian trade route, a transport corridor connecting… pic.twitter.com/bbYGlX9Grm
— Daryo | Central Asia & Afghanistan (@DaryoEng) September 7, 2024
Trans-Caspian International Transport Route
The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, or Middle Corridor, stretches from China through Kazakhstan, across the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Europe.
This route has gained prominence as an alternative to Russian transit pathways, especially in light of recent geopolitical shifts.
The Middle Corridor has seen growing container traffic, offering new economic opportunities for Central Asian countries.
The European Union has also shown interest in bolstering transport links with Central Asia independent of Russia, viewing the Middle Corridor as key to connecting the region with European markets.
The C5+1 platform, uniting the U.S. with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, aims to deepen diplomatic and economic ties.
Washington has promoted regional integration with the Trans-Caspian route as a core element, enabling Central Asian states to access global markets independently.
Marking over 30 years of diplomatic relations with Tajikistan, Ambassador Micaller praised the depth of bilateral ties, citing cooperation in areas such as education, health, economic investment, and border security.
The U.S. has significantly contributed to infrastructure development in Tajikistan, including the construction of the Rogun hydroelectric dam.
The potential involvement of Tajikistan in the Trans-Caspian route could prove transformative for its economy, providing access to new markets in the Caucasus and Europe.
With U.S. and EU backing, the route’s development could diminish Central Asia’s reliance on Russian logistics, offering nations like Tajikistan new growth prospects and greater integration into the global economy.
