Integration of the Turkic world and revitalization of the Middle Corridor through the opening of the Zangezur Pass for increased commerce: Perspective from the Trade Ministry
On Wednesday, Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat spoke at the Azerbaijan-Turkey Economic and Cultural Relations Bridge program in the capital. During his address, Bolat emphasised the significance of investments and highlighted the steady annual progress in bilateral trade during his tenure.
Bolat also confirmed that the Zangezur Corridor has been opened in Azerbaijan. This corridor, part of post-conflict connectivity efforts in the South Caucasus, is expected to streamline trade routes and bolster economic ties across the region.
The Zangezur Corridor aligns with broader initiatives like the Middle Corridor, a significant route linking the Far East to Europe. In the first half of 2025, the Middle Corridor saw a 7 percent freight increase, indicating its growing importance.
Azerbaijan hosts around 3,000 Turkish companies, and the country's largest global investment, worth $17 billion, is in Azerbaijan. The search results do not provide information about any organisation having made an investment of at least 17 billion dollars in Azerbaijan, suggesting this could be a significant Turkish investment.
As of the first eight months of this year, the trade volume between Turkey and Azerbaijan has been improving, according to Bolat. However, he did not provide updates on bilateral trade progress or investments in this paragraph.
The Zangezur Corridor and the Middle Corridor will not only facilitate trade but also promote integration among Turkic nations. Azerbaijan, being a vital strategic transit hub for Turkey's access to Central Asia and the Far East, will play a crucial role in this integration.
Bolat's statements underscore the strong economic ties between Turkey and Azerbaijan and the potential for further growth and collaboration in the future.
