A trilateral meeting between Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan was held on the sidelines of the first Transport Trade and Export Forum in Aktau. The key topic of discussion was the proposed construction of a new railway line connecting Turgundi, Herat, Kandahar, and Spin Boldak, which would extend from Turkmenistan’s western border through Afghanistan to Pakistan and further to India.
Mammetkhan Chakyev, Head of the Agency for Transport and Communications under the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, suggested joint participation in this ambitious project. He noted that Turkmenistan has already coordinated with Afghan counterparts on establishing a logistics center in Turgundi and plans to begin construction soon. This center is expected to handle the transshipment of grain, containers, and other cargo, significantly boosting cargo turnover from Turgundi.
Chakyev highlighted the role of Kazakhstan in the project, acknowledging its expertise in producing high-quality railway tracks. He emphasized that the involvement of Kazakhstan could greatly enhance the attractiveness of the railway corridor and its overall efficiency.
“The Turgundi-Herat line is more than just railway construction; it represents the development of freight traffic and attracting cargo. Kazakhstan’s participation could increase the corridor’s appeal significantly,” Chakyev stated.
Afghan representatives expressed their commitment to ensuring the smooth transit of goods through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to Pakistan. They also showed interest in importing Chinese goods via these routes, recognizing the potential benefits of the new corridor for all parties involved.
Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin welcomed the proposals, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in initiating the western corridor through Afghanistan to Pakistan and India.
“We are pleased to support Turkmenistan’s initiative and view this project as a critical step towards developing the western corridor,” Zhumangarin remarked.
On the same day, the Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan also met with an Iranian delegation to review progress on their joint transport and logistics infrastructure development plans.
