Kazakhstan at centre of Eurasian connectivity; active in North-South Corridor: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has described transit and logistics as a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s long-term strategy, emphasizing the country’s unique position at the crossroads of major continental routes and referred to Astana’s active participation in the North South Corridor.

In a recent interview with the Turkistan newspaper, Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan’s geographic position obliges the country to pursue a balanced, independent, and principled foreign policy, including active participation in shaping global discussions.

“For our country, strengthening its transit and logistics potential is a task of strategic importance. Despite having no direct access to the sea, Kazakhstan is located at the center of the Eurasian continent at the intersection of most transit corridors. This is a major advantage that we must skillfully use for the benefit of the country,” he said.


According to him, Kazakhstan aims to transform itself into a major transport hub of Eurasia, supported by large-scale rail and road infrastructure projects, including new railway lines and the Center–West highway, which will significantly shorten travel distances between regions.

Kazakhstan has also developed a transport system that extends beyond its borders, forming a network of cargo terminals stretching from the Yellow Sea to the Black Sea. Tokayev also emphasized that 12 international transport corridors pass through the country, handling the majority of land freight between China and Europe.

Tokayev highlighted that Kazakhstan remains actively engaged in developing the North–South corridor, and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route among other corridors.

He noted that, in addition to outbound visits, Astana hosted leaders for talks consistently focused on economic cooperation, investment, and global coordination. As a result of these engagements, documents to develop Kazakhstan’s priority sectors were signed last year.

“I have no desire whatsoever to act as a mediator in international disputes, nor do I have any aspiration to return to work at the UN, despite approaches from several countries. However, I do take part in closed consultations and discussions, especially since heads of a number of states are interested in my opinion. I do not need media coverage of this important work, I am far from populism. It seems that for participants in behind-the-scenes consultations, this point is also important,” Tokayev said.

The Turkistan newspaper is one of Kazakhstan’s most influential newspapers.