President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted sustained economic growth in Central Asia at the International Forum in Ashgabat and called for the development of transport and logistics infrastructure. The head of state listed partners for developing the Middle Corridor: Russia, China, Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia and other interested countries.
Tokayev took part in the forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality. Speaking about the economic situation in the region, the President noted positive dynamics.
"Central Asia is bypassed by stagnation; the countries are showing confident growth. Kazakhstan's economic growth this year will exceed 6%, gross output will surpass the $300 billion mark, and per capita this is more than $15,000," he emphasised.
The development of transport infrastructure was one of the central themes of the speech. The head of state emphasised that the countries of the region are actively increasing their transit and transport potential.
"Kazakhstan attaches due importance to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, modernising its railway, port and road infrastructure. We are actively involved in developing a Comprehensive Strategy for the Development of the Transport System," Tokayev stated.
According to him, joint efforts can shape the transport and logistics architecture of Eurasia in cooperation with Russia, China, Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia and other countries.
Tokayev paid particular attention to issues of water security, which are becoming increasingly relevant for the region. In the face of growing water scarcity, its conservation has become a strategic priority. The President drew attention to problems of transboundary water use and the alarming environmental state of the Aral and Caspian Seas.
Kazakhstan put forward specific initiatives. It was proposed to strengthen the effectiveness of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, inviting Russia as an observer. The President warned that the shrinking of the Caspian Sea could become irreversible, and proposed the development of an Interstate Programme to Prevent the Destruction of the Ecosystem.
For a systemic solution to water issues, Tokayev proposed creating a Global Water Organisation within the UN framework, which could consolidate existing mandates. The consultation process on this initiative is planned to be launched at the Regional Environmental Summit in April 2026 in Astana.
In the context of global challenges, the President noted the significance of Ashgabat's initiative to proclaim the International Year of Peace and Trust, supported by the UN General Assembly. Tokayev emphasised the need to reform the United Nations, including expanding the composition of the Security Council.
On the sidelines of the forum, as part of bilateral contacts, the President held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze. The sides noted the significant potential for increased interaction in the transport, logistics, trade and economic spheres.