The Middle Corridor (the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) has evolved from a regional initiative into a strategic artery of Eurasian connectivity – linking Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia across the Caspian Sea and onward to Europe and East Asia. Amid shifting trade patterns and geopoliticaluncertainty, the Corridor offers a credible, diversified alternative to traditional northern transit routes. It supports Europe’s energy security, supply chain resilience, and digital connectivity. In order to fully realize its potential, the Corridor must bridge the existing perception gap regarding coordination, governance, and reliability. Strengthening institutional mechanisms and creating credible guarantees for investors and policymakers are essential steps toward transforming it from a promising vision into a bankable and secure Eurasian route. This event will also introduce CPC reports on the Middle Corridor and Critical Minerals potential of the Caspian region.

07:30 – 08:30 

Moderated Discussion and Q&A

Moderated by Efgan Nifti, Chief Executive Officer, Caspian Policy Center

• Assel Zhanassova, Deputy Head of the President’s Administration, Office of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan
• Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration 
• Sodiq Safoyev, First Deputy Chairman, Senate of Uzbekistan's Parliament