中经记者路炳阳北京报道 中国国家铁路集团有限公司（以下简称"国铁集团"）下属中铁集装箱运输有限责任公司（以下简称"中 铁集装箱"），在11月18日举办的第二届中欧班列国际合作论坛上，正式签署股份认购协议，加入由哈 萨克斯坦、阿塞拜疆、格鲁吉亚三国铁路公司合资创立的中间走廊多式联运有限公司（以下简称"中间 走廊公司"），四方将合力推动中欧班列南通道建设和运营。 "中间走廊"提质升级 "中间走廊"又称跨里海国际运输走廊，通过铁海联运、公铁联运方式，中欧班列可经这一走廊拓展到里 海、黑海以及地中海沿岸国家，是中欧班列南通道的重要组成部分。 因为无须绕行西伯利亚，跨里海国际运输走廊实际上是中国和欧洲之间最短的运输路线，这条通道最大 的特点是，无须经过俄罗斯。由于这条通道位于北部俄罗斯—欧洲运输路线和南部伊朗—土耳其—欧洲 运输路线的中间，所以被称为"中间走廊"。 2023年11月，哈萨克斯坦、阿塞拜疆、格鲁吉亚铁路公司在阿斯塔纳注册成立中间走廊公司，旨在整合 协调各类运输资源，为客户提供"中间走廊"货物运输代理服务，实行全程统一对外报价，提升运输时 效、价格等方面的竞争力，推动"中间走廊"货物运输发展。 国铁集团国际 ...

Core Insights - Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan have significant potential for expanding transportation and logistics cooperation, with the Baku-Turkmenbashi International Sea Port being a key link in the international transport corridor across the Caspian Sea [1] Transportation and Logistics - In the period from January to July 2025, the cargo transportation volume through Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan reached 1.28 million tons, representing a year-on-year increase of 13% [1] - Approximately 76% of the cargo transported was via east-west railway [1] Renewable Energy Cooperation - Progress has been made in cooperation on renewable energy between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan [1] - Turkmenistan is considering exporting electricity to Europe through Azerbaijan and participating in green energy projects, including the Caspian-Black Sea-Europe green energy corridor project [1]

Core Points - The Xi'an-Azerbaijan Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference was held in Baku, aiming to enhance international cooperation through the China-Europe Railway Express (Xi'an) and accelerate the construction of the new Eurasian land-sea intermodal corridor and the international transport corridor across the Caspian Sea [1] - Xi'an and Baku are both important nodes in the Belt and Road Initiative, with increasing demand for hub-to-hub functionality [1] Group 1 - The conference featured over 90 representatives from enterprises in Xi'an and Azerbaijan, facilitating discussions on strengthening international transportation and logistics cooperation [1] - The head of Xi'an Free Trade Port Construction and Operation Company presented the construction status of the China-Europe Railway Express Xi'an assembly center [1] - Mayor Ye Niuping emphasized the significance of building the international transport corridor across the Caspian Sea as a key action for high-quality Belt and Road construction, linking it to the modern continuation of the ancient Silk Road [1] Group 2 - The conference included representatives from various companies, such as Azerbaijan Railways, Abşeron Logistics Center, TEZI Logistics, and the China Electric Power Engineering Consulting Group Northwest Electric Power Design Institute, who engaged in in-depth discussions [1] - Xi'an is willing to support the development of Azerbaijan's ports, airports, aviation, railways, and logistics enterprises in collaboration with Xi'an companies to enhance multi-modal transport efficiency [1] - The goal is to cultivate more super carriers and collaboratively build efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality international trade channels [1]

Core Points - The meeting between Xi'an Mayor Ye Niuping and Baku Mayor Azizov aims to enhance local government cooperation and promote the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative [1] - Both cities are identified as important nodes in the Belt and Road Initiative, which is crucial for improving the efficiency of the international transport corridor across the Caspian Sea [1] Group 1 - Ye Niuping introduced the spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and discussed the progress of international logistics project cooperation in Baku [1] - The mayors expressed a desire to leverage the geographical advantages of Xi'an and Baku to establish a hub-to-hub cooperation mechanism [1] - There is a focus on accelerating the promotion of direct air cargo and passenger transport, enhancing the efficiency of the China-Europe Railway Express (Xi'an), and deepening cooperation in education, technology, culture, tourism, and urban governance [1] Group 2 - Azizov welcomed the visit and expressed willingness to seize the opportunities presented by the Belt and Road Initiative to deepen local government exchanges and cooperation [1] - The establishment of a mechanism to implement the outcomes of their discussions and enhance both offline and online communication is emphasized [1] - The aim is to facilitate more practical cooperation results in various fields, including international cooperation on the China-Europe Railway Express (Xi'an) and direct air cargo transport [1]

Core Insights - The article highlights the rapid development of logistics cooperation between China and Kazakhstan, driven by the Belt and Road Initiative and the increasing volume of international freight traffic through Kazakhstan [1][2]. Logistics Development - The transit volume through Kazakhstan is expected to reach 33 million tons this year, with the Alashankou railway port facilitating 5,000 China-Europe (Central Asia) freight trains, covering 125 routes to 21 countries [1][2]. - The Dostyk hub has seen an average annual growth of approximately 20% in freight business volume, with plans for significant expansion in 2024 [2][3]. Infrastructure and Capacity Expansion - The opening of the Dostyk-Moinak railway double track will significantly enhance the capacity for receiving and dispatching trains between Alashankou and Dostyk [2]. - The "Horgos-East Gate" dry port has expanded its operational lines from 6 to 19 since 2015, with a projected increase in container handling from 20,000 TEUs to 324,000 TEUs by 2024 [3][4]. International Transport Corridor - The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, which connects China through Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan and beyond, is gaining importance in the global logistics landscape, with a forecasted freight volume of over 4.5 million tons in 2024 [4][5]. - The number of container trains operating on this route is expected to rise from 11 in 2023 to 359 in 2024, indicating a significant increase in logistics capacity [4]. Economic Impact - The logistics cooperation has brought tangible benefits to local residents and created numerous business opportunities in border areas, attracting nearly 100 companies to the Horgos-East Gate economic zone [2][3]. - The interconnected logistics nodes along the Caspian Sea and key ports like Dostyk and Horgos are crucial for the socio-economic development and diversification of the Eurasian transport landscape [5].

Core Insights - The opening ceremony for the 5th anniversary of the China-Europe Railway Express (Zhejiang) cross-Caspian International Transport Corridor was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, highlighting the growth and strategic importance of this transport route [1] Group 1: Transport Corridor Development - Azerbaijan officials announced plans to increase the number of China-Europe Railway Express trains passing through the country [1] - The 237th train from Zhejiang arrived at the Baku Apşeron Logistics Center, utilizing a "rail-sea-rail" multimodal transport model, which saves approximately one-third of the time compared to traditional sea transport [1] - Over the past five years, the volume of transit cargo transported through Azerbaijan has increased fivefold [1] Group 2: Future Projections - The target for the number of China-Europe Railway Express trains passing through Azerbaijan in 2024 is set at 358, with an aim to increase this to 450 trains in the current year and a mid-term goal of 1,000 trains annually [1] - Azerbaijan is positioned as a crucial link in the cross-Caspian International Transport Corridor, also known as the "Middle Corridor," which connects China to Europe via Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea [1]

Core Viewpoint - The opening ceremony of the China-Europe Railway Express (Zhejiang) cross-Caspian International Transport Corridor marks its 5th anniversary, highlighting the growth and strategic importance of this transport route for Azerbaijan and its partnership with China [1] Group 1: Transport Corridor Development - The 237th train of the China-Europe Railway Express (Zhejiang) arrived at the Baku Apşeron Logistics Center, utilizing a "rail-sea-rail" multimodal transport model, which saves about one-third of the time compared to traditional sea transport [1] - Azerbaijan's transit cargo volume has increased fivefold over the past five years, indicating significant growth in the region's logistics capabilities [1] Group 2: Future Projections - The target for the number of China-Europe Railway Express trains passing through Azerbaijan is set at 450 for this year, with a mid-term goal of reaching 1,000 trains annually [1] - Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a crucial link in the cross-Caspian International Transport Corridor, also known as the "Middle Corridor," which connects China to Europe via Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea [1]

Group 1 - The core point of the article discusses the recent peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, facilitated by the United States, which includes the establishment of a transportation corridor controlled by the U.S. for 99 years [3][4][42] - The historical context of the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia is rooted in a century-long rivalry, exacerbated by the geopolitical dynamics of the region, particularly the influence of Russia [5][10][20] - The agreement is seen as a strategic move for both countries, especially Armenia, to seek alternatives to Russian influence, as both nations have grown disillusioned with Russia's role in the region [22][41] Group 2 - The Zangezur corridor is positioned as a significant geopolitical asset, connecting Azerbaijan to Turkey and enhancing its strategic importance in the region [24][38] - The corridor is expected to improve trade routes and energy supplies, particularly for Azerbaijan's oil and gas exports to Turkey and the EU, which is crucial for both economic and energy security [39][40] - The article highlights the potential for increased geopolitical tensions, particularly with Iran's strong opposition to the U.S. presence in the region and concerns over the implications for regional stability [44][51] Group 3 - The peace agreement and the establishment of the corridor could lead to a shift in the regional power dynamics, with the U.S. gaining a foothold in an area traditionally dominated by Russia [16][42] - The involvement of the U.S. raises concerns among neighboring countries, particularly Iran and Turkey, about the potential for increased military presence and influence in the South Caucasus [45][52] - The article concludes that while the peace agreement is a positive development, the broader implications for regional integration and trust among global powers remain uncertain [53][54]

Group 1 - Turkish President Erdogan and Kazakh President Tokayev held talks to strengthen cooperation in multiple sectors, including energy and transportation [1] - The two leaders co-chaired the fifth meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, resulting in the signing of several cooperation documents [1] - The discussion included the feasibility of exporting Kazakh oil to Europe and the global market through Turkey, as well as specific plans to enhance the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor [1] Group 2 - Tokayev emphasized that Turkey is a key partner for Kazakhstan in trade and investment, with bilateral trade reaching $5 billion last year [1] - There is significant potential for cooperation in transportation and logistics, particularly as most land freight between Europe and China passes through Kazakhstan [1] - Kazakhstan has initiated infrastructure improvement projects for railways and roads to promote Caspian shipping, inviting Turkish investors to participate [1] Group 3 - Both leaders highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation in the energy sector, with approximately 1.4 million tons of Kazakh oil transported to Turkey via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline annually [1] - They discussed ways to further increase the transportation capacity of this pipeline [1]

Core Viewpoint - The Caspian Corridor, also known as the "Trans-Caspian International Transport Route," serves as a vital logistics channel connecting China and Europe, bypassing traditional Russian routes amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, thus becoming an alternative for Eurasian trade [2][12]. Route and Coverage - Geographic Path: Starts from Xinjiang, China (Kashgar or Horgos) [2]. - Major Nodes: - Kazakhstan: Aktau Port (core hub on the eastern Caspian) [3]. - Caspian Sea: Rail-to-ferry transfer across the Caspian Sea (approximately 3,500 km in total length) [4]. - Azerbaijan: Baku Port (logistics center on the western Caspian) [5]. - Georgia: Tbilisi (Caucasus hub) [6]. - Endpoint: Istanbul, Turkey, or Europe (e.g., Germany, Netherlands) [7]. Multimodal Transport Model - The transport model includes: - Rail from China to Kazakhstan - Ferry across the Caspian Sea - Rail/Road from Azerbaijan/Georgia to Europe [8]. Core Advantages and Strategic Value - Time and Cost Optimization: - Transport time from China to Europe is reduced to 15-20 days, compared to 45 days for traditional sea routes [10]. - Cost per standard container is approximately $2,363, slightly higher than sea freight ($1,940-$2,200), but offers advantages in low carbon emissions, fewer transshipments, and high punctuality [11]. - Geopolitical Advantages: - The corridor provides a stable alternative route amid disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, attracting support from Western and Central Asian countries [12]. - Economic Impact: - Kazakhstan's transit fees exceed $200 million annually, while Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan benefit from breaking their landlocked status [13]. - The corridor connects Kazakhstan's oil and gas resources and key minerals from Central Asia, ensuring the security of the European supply chain [14]. - Key Component of China's Belt and Road Initiative: - The corridor is prioritized in China's high-quality Belt and Road construction actions, enhancing the strategic position of Xinjiang [15]. Operational Status and Development Goals - Explosive Growth in Freight Volume: - Freight volume reached 4.1 million tons in the first 11 months of 2024 (up 63% year-on-year), with container volume at 50,500 TEUs (a 2.6-fold increase) [16]. - Freight volume was only 1.5 million tons in 2022, with projections to exceed 4.5 million tons in 2024 (a sixfold increase over five years) [16]. - Infrastructure Upgrades: - Aktau Port in Kazakhstan is set to open in June 2025, with an annual capacity of 240,000 TEUs [16]. - Baku Port expansion will increase capacity to 25 million tons/500,000 TEUs [16]. - Electrification of the Dostyk-Moyynty railway segment in Kazakhstan will increase capacity fivefold [16]. - Long-term Goals: - Targeting freight volume of 10 million tons by 2027 (current capacity is 6 million tons/year) [16]. - Projected container volume of 130,000 TEUs by 2040, according to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development [16]. Challenges and Bottlenecks - Infrastructure Shortcomings: - Insufficient ferry capacity with only 13 ferries servicing the Baku-Aktau route, leading to mismatched port throughput and rail capacity [16]. - Low efficiency in transshipment, requiring multiple loading and unloading processes, which increases time costs (e.g., 1-2 days for transshipment at Aktau Port) [16]. - Funding Gaps: - An estimated $38.8 billion is needed for upgrades, with a financing gap of approximately $1.8 billion from the private sector [16]. - Geopolitical Tensions: - Russia's implicit resistance due to concerns over losing control in Central Asia [16]. - Great Power Competition: - The U.S. and Europe are promoting "friend-shoring" to dominate critical mineral supply chains [16]. Key Metrics Summary - Total Length: Approximately 4,766 km - Transport Time: 15-20 days from China to Europe - Freight Volume: 4.5 million tons in 2024 (410,000 tons in the first 11 months) - Container Volume: 50,500 TEUs (first 11 months of 2024) - 2027 Target: 10 million tons - Cost: $2,363 per TEU (China to Turkey) [16]. Conclusion - The Caspian Corridor is emerging as a strategic route in the Eurasian trade landscape, characterized by its efficiency, geopolitical risk mitigation, and deep integration with China's Belt and Road Initiative. Despite facing infrastructure and funding challenges, the rapid growth in freight volume and collaborative efforts among countries along the route indicate its potential for continued expansion. If bottlenecks in ferry capacity and transshipment efficiency are addressed, it could rival traditional Eurasian land bridges as a primary artery for trade [16].