Relations between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are based not only on mutual sympathy, but also on mutually beneficial economic pragmatism. Both countries are joining a large trade project, developing an alternative continental route to the oceanic one, Kazakh political observer Gaziz Abishev said, El.kz reports.
Within the framework of President Tokayev's state visit to Baku, a number of documents were signed, including:
- Agreement between the transport ministries of the two countries on mutual recognition of certificates of crew members of sea vessels. It is aimed at simplifying maritime communication between Aktau and Baku;
Agreement on strategic partnership between Samruk-Kazyna Fund and Azerbaijan Investment Holding. It will be possible to more actively create joint projects in several areas;
- Agreement on a phased increase in the volume of transit of Kazakh oil through the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan between JSC National Company KazMunayGas and the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
In other words, trans-Caspian logistics is at the forefront. "Now the struggle for access to transport and logistics opportunities is intensifying all over the world. Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are closely interacting here as natural partners," President Tokayev said.
"It's not just about the transit of Kazakh goods. Kazakhstan is struggling to make billions of dollars from Chinese transit through its territory. Shippers need powerful, diversified supply chains that are not heavily dependent on geopolitics. The Azerbaijani direction strengthens the relevant potential," the analyst wrote.