Lanterna Rally

Author: Mahir Humbatov

Publisher: Mahir Humbatov

Published: 2017-11-30

Total Pages: 124

ISBN-13:

Countries situated mainly between China and the European Union are currently participating in a race to develop their transport, trade and logistics infrastructure to attract at least one of the threads of Silk Road that will carry goods and people across Eurasia. It is believed that development of the Europe-South Caucasus-Asia transport, trade and logistics infrastructure will reduce the cost of production and services, which are important to raise competitiveness and social well-being. Although the Europe-South Caucasus-Asia transport route is a shortcut way between the two continents, the soft and hard infrastructure along this way is not enough developed to meet the emerging demand for goods and passenger turnover. Huge investments required for the development of these routes could be invested by development banks (WB, EBRD, EIB, ADB, AIIB, IDB, BSTDB, ECO bank, and so on), governments and private sector. Different types of infrastructure financing models, including public private partnerships, for the upgrading of relevant infrastructure are options on the table to discuss further. Moreover, harmonization of standards, reducing procedures, electronisation of facilities and co-ordination of activities require a new approach and many adaptations. The Europe-South Caucasus-Asia transport, trade and logistics nexus and the International North-South Transport Corridor are not only economic projects, but also carry political elements, which are backed by certain political agendas. However, it is clear that any type of old Silk Road revival initiative will drive many countries to develop their infrastructure as well as superstructure and coordinate this with other participating countries, which as a result will be beneficial for all of them. It is also believed that every single country may benefit and generate revenues from old Silk Road revival process in case of possible collabouration with its neighbouring countries. Azerbaijan enjoys an advantageous geographical position at a crossroads of East-West and North-South corridors, which leads the country to become a regional transport, production, and trade and logistics hub. The country makes huge investments into its own infrastructure as well as supports certain other neighbouring countries. Within this framework, common will based on the reciprocity and mutual benefit can foster enhanced cooperation along with the Great Silk Road and International North- South Transportation Corridor projects.