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Akbar Novruz

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The strategic importance of the Middle Corridor, which connects Europe with Central Asia and extends to other regions, is rapidly increasing, Belgian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Julien de Julien de Fraipont said at the "Black Sea-Caspian Logistics Forum 2025: Corridors, Cargo, Infrastructure" in Baku, Azernews reports.

"The Middle Corridor has become an extremely important alternative to traditional routes. Last year, the volume of cargo transportation through this corridor increased by more than 60%, and container traffic is projected to triple by 2030. The recently signed agreement between Azerbaijan, Armenia and the United States, which we also welcome, will only strengthen this potential," the ambassador noted.

He pointed out that despite the opportunities, challenges remain. "Infrastructure bottlenecks, incomplete legal frameworks and geopolitical instability in the wider region continue to test the sustainability of regional supply chains," he said.

According to de Fraipont, the European Union has already adapted its approach: "The EU has accepted these challenges and responded with a new strategy for the Black Sea region. A key element of this strategy is a development agenda for relations aimed at creating transport, energy and digital corridors connecting Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia."

The diplomat stressed that the issue goes beyond physical connectivity: "It is about creating a stable, secure and prosperous region through inclusive partnerships and smart investments. As a founding member of the European Union and a global logistics hub, Belgium is well positioned to contribute to these projects. Our ports – Antwerp, Bruges, as well as the inland ports of Ghent and Liege – are among the largest in Europe. Belgian companies and experts have world-class experience in multimodal transport, digital platforms and 'green logistics'."

He encouraged regional stakeholders to seek closer cooperation with Belgian companies: "I encourage regional stakeholders and local companies to explore partnership opportunities with Belgian companies, both for their technical expertise and our commitment to reliability, sustainability and long-term cooperation. We believe that through such strategic partnerships, this region can become a global hub and a cornerstone of world trade."