South Caucasus emerges as bridge between Europe and Asia
Europe is increasingly viewing the South Caucasus not as a region of frozen conflicts, but as a space of opportunity, stability and strategic connecti...
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev has described the Middle Corridor as a “strategic project connecting a vast geography”, while also pledging to accelerate work on the newly launched TRIPP route.
In his address to participants at the 6th Caspian Business Forum in New York, organised by the Caspian Policy Center, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s role in regional transport and connectivity projects.
He described the Middle Corridor as a strategic route linking Asia and Europe via the Caspian Sea, offering the shortest and safest path for goods transit. He emphasised that Azerbaijan’s location at the crossroads of the two continents enables it to play a key role in regional trade and logistics.
The president noted that Azerbaijan’s long-term planning and consistent efforts have turned the Middle Corridor into a reality, fostering greater integration between Asia and Europe. He added that the project’s success is supported by the country’s political stability and security.
Turning to the TRIPP initiative – the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity – Aliyev said Azerbaijan has mobilised all efforts to ensure its swift implementation. Launched in August with a joint declaration between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington, in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, TRIPP is intended to provide a direct connection between mainland Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.
Aliyev explained that TRIPP complements the Middle Corridor by expanding freight transit capacity, supporting regional prosperity, and enhancing integration into global supply chains. He added that the project could also facilitate energy exports, including renewable sources, and the development of fibre-optic networks, strengthening the region’s position as a hub for trade and digital communications.
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Europe is increasingly viewing the South Caucasus not as a region of frozen conflicts, but as a space of opportunity, stability and strategic connectivity, international relations expert Nagiz Mammadova said.
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