Diversification of transport routes through Afghanistan - a strategic initiative of Uzbekistan in the field of global logistics
Diversification of transport routes through Afghanistan - a strategic initiative of Uzbekistan in the field of global logistics
The issue of diversification of transport routes through Afghanistan has a direct impact not only on the logistics sector, but also on geopolitical stability and regional economic cooperation. This direction creates an opportunity for Uzbekistan to become a strategic transit center on the Eurasian continent and strengthens the country's position in the global trade system. Thus, Uzbekistan will not only increase the efficiency of cargo transportation, but will also become an important link in global supply chains.
The territory of Afghanistan provides the countries of Central Asia with the shortest access to the ports of the Indian Ocean. In particular, the route leading to Pakistan via the Trans-Afghan Railway (Termez - Naibabad - Logar - Kharlachi) is considered a project of strategic importance. If the project is implemented, cargo from Europe and East Asia will be able to directly reach the ports of Karachi and Gwadar through Uzbekistan. This will not only reduce the time, but also significantly reduce transportation costs.
One of the main principles of global logistics is to ensure security and expand diversification. Geopolitical crises of recent years, in particular instability in northern directions, difficulties with transportation through the Red Sea and disruptions in global supply chains, are forcing states to look for new transport routes. It is in such conditions that the roads through Afghanistan acquire strategic importance and open up new opportunities for the countries of Central Asia.
The Government of Uzbekistan especially notes the role of Afghanistan in this process. Afghanistan is the only railway bridge connecting the region with South Asia and the Indian Ocean, and the effective use of its transit potential is considered a priority area of Uzbekistan's foreign trade strategy.
The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev said the following about this: "We should not isolate Afghanistan, but help it. For sustainable development in Central Asia, it is important, among other things, to restore Afghanistan's internal transport links and expand its transit capabilities."
These words clearly show the role of Afghanistan in regional integration. The development of the country's transit potential not only contributes to economic growth, but also ensures regional peace. Routes through Afghanistan will strengthen Uzbekistan's position in the international logistics system and turn it into the main logistics hub of Central Asia.
President Mirziyoyev said the following about the Trans-Afghan Railway: "The Trans-Afghan Railway project is a priority for us. Its implementation will shorten the routes from Central Asian countries to the Indian Ocean, reduce transportation costs by 3-4 times. If this project is connected to the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, new conditions for trade and transport will be created in the region, and the logistics chain will become much more efficient."
The geographical location of Afghanistan turns it into an important transit hub for Eurasia. If this route works, Central Asian countries will gain new opportunities to enter world markets. Thus, the diversification of global supply chains will significantly increase and regional economic integration will be strengthened.
The transport corridor "Belarus - Russia - Kazakhstan - Uzbekistan - Afghanistan - Pakistan" occupies a special place in the development of international routes through Afghanistan. This corridor is a strategic artery directly linking the markets of Europe and South Asia, allowing for fast and cheap cargo delivery. Goods moving from Belarus and Russia enter Uzbekistan via Kazakhstan, and then through Afghanistan to the Pakistani ports of Karachi and Gwadar. Afghanistan's participation in this process will not only enhance its authority as a transit state, but will also serve to restore the country's economy.
The construction of new railways, logistics centers and border terminals in Afghanistan will create new jobs for the local population and increase trade flows. In addition, when this route is integrated with the Trans-Afghan Railway, the shortest and safest corridor to the Indian Ocean will be created for the countries of Central Asia.
The diversification of transport routes through Afghanistan is a historic initiative that strengthens the role and authority of Uzbekistan in global logistics. This direction not only expands the foreign trade opportunities of our country, but also opens up new prospects for the whole of Central Asia. Establishing a sustainable transit system in Afghanistan will take trade, investment and transport relations in the region to a new level. Thus, Uzbekistan occupies an important place not only in the development of the logistics industry, but also in strengthening regional peace and cooperation.
Mukhtorjanov Usmonjon
Head of Department of the Center for the Study of Problems of Transport and Logistics Development under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan
