Global Gateway: EU funded study paves way for major investment into sustainable transport connections between EU and Central Asia

A study conducted by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and financed by the Commission published today proposes the most sustainable transport connections and investment opportunities for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to maximise their economic potential by linking up better with each other – and with Europe. The Study on Sustainable Transport Connections between Europe and Central Asia offers a solid basis for major potential investments in sustainable transport connections between the EU and Central Asia. It is a deliverable of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.

It proposes a comprehensive 360-degree approach in identifying and prioritising 33 hard infrastructure investment needs and in parallel putting forward seven coordinated actions on soft connectivity measures (such as trade facilitation, regulatory measures, or digitalisation. The study recommends, among others, setting up a formal corridor management institution, digitalising transport documents, increased interoperability, market liberalisation and co-ordinated tariff setting. These actions can contribute to the sustainability, competitiveness, economic attractiveness, and operational efficiency of transport connections in Central Asia.

More information is available online.

(For more information: Ana Pisonero Hernandez – Tel.: +32 2 295 43 20; Adalbert Jahnz – Tel.: +32 2 295 31 56)