The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a transformative infrastructure project, is set to reduce the distance between East Asia, Central Asia, and Southern Europe by approximately 900 kilometers. Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, Bekzhan Rysmendeev, highlighted the project’s significance at the COP29 High-Level Ministerial Roundtable on Sustainable and Digital Middle Corridor held today.
Speaking about the railway, Rysmendeev stated, “This new corridor will serve as the southern branch of the Middle Corridor, granting access to Southeast and Western Asia, the Middle East, and the European Union markets. It will reduce delivery times to just 10 days, enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of the international transit market.”
Strategic Importance of the Railway
The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is expected to serve as a crucial transportation link, facilitating the movement of goods from China through Kyrgyzstan to regions such as Türkiye, Central Asia, the Middle East, and further into Europe. The reduced transit time and distance are anticipated to make this route a vital artery for global trade.
Rysmendeev underscored the socio-economic benefits for Kyrgyzstan, explaining how the project would expand transportation services for its population, accelerate infrastructure development, and significantly contribute to the country’s economy.
Enhancing Central Asia’s Connectivity
This project aligns with the strategic goals of Central Asian countries, aiming to diversify transport routes and cement the region’s role as a key international transportation and transit hub. Strengthening interregional ties through the railway also supports broader geopolitical objectives, enhancing cooperation among neighboring nations.
COP29 Context and Global Goals
Rysmendeev’s remarks were delivered as part of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, held in Baku from November 11 to 22. COP29 has brought global leaders together to discuss critical issues, including green energy initiatives, digital technologies, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
During COP29, world leaders convened to pursue a new climate finance goal and address the urgency of keeping global warming within 1.5°C. These discussions emphasize the interconnectedness of climate action and sustainable development, with projects like the railway contributing to green transportation and reduced emissions.
UN Framework on Climate Change: A Brief Overview
The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, established at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, is a global agreement aimed at mitigating human impacts on the climate. With 198 participating countries, COP sessions serve as the Convention’s legislative body. The first COP was held in 1995 in Berlin, and the secretariat is headquartered in Bonn.
As COP29 unfolds, projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway underscore how sustainable infrastructure can simultaneously support economic growth and climate goals. This railway promises to be a cornerstone in global trade networks, benefiting Kyrgyzstan and its neighbors while addressing key climate and development challenges.