ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 13. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is interested in supporting projects related to developing transport infrastructure in Kazakhstan, head of Asia and Pacific Division at EIB Edvardas Bumšteinas said at a meeting with Chairman of the Investment Committee of Kazakhstan's MFA Ardak Zebeshev, Trend reports.
In this regard, Bumšteinas noted the importance of developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (TITR, or Middle Corridor), which, in his opinion, will become an additional tool for strengthening regional infrastructure between Europe and Asia.
In turn, Zebeshev pointed out that the development of the transport corridor between the EU and Asia is a priority for the country. He expressed confidence that the corridor will not only promote economic growth, but also strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between regions.
In addition, the parties discussed the prospects for financing projects in the field of renewable energy and power lines.
The EIB expressed readiness to provide both technical and financial support for cooperation with the bank’s European partners.
According to Zebeshev, Kazakhstan pays great attention to the development of renewable energy.
Leading companies such as Eni (Italy), Total Eren (France), ACWA Power (Saudi Arabia), China Water Electric (China), Svevind (Germany-Sweden) are already operating in the field of electricity and renewable energy in Kazakhstan.
Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness for further cooperation.
The EIB is currently active in four Central Asian countries: Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and most recently Uzbekistan.
The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor.
The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye before reaching Europe.
The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.