As part of their working trip to Azerbaijan, Khayotjon Ibragimov and Nargiza Umarova took part in an expert discussion on the topic “Azerbaijan – Central Asia: What are the prospects for integration?” with the participation of Azerbaijani and Kazakh experts, including representatives of the Analytical Center STEM (Baku) and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

 

The conversation focused on practical mechanisms for bringing the two regions closer together, with Azerbaijan acting as a natural bridge between Central Asia and European markets. Participants discussed the interconnection of transport and logistics routes, the coordination of tariff and customs policies, the development of energy ties, and green projects.

 

The discussion emphasized that sustainable rapprochement is possible through a combination of three levels of action: intergovernmental coordination, industry partnerships, and academic and expert support. In such a constructive track, Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia are capable of transforming existing corridors into full-fledged production and logistics chains with high added value, and humanitarian ties into a long-term resource of trust and predictability.

 

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.