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The International Transporters Association (UND), Albayrak Group, and Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding to develop a modern, sustainable and multistakeholder Ro-Ro service on the Caspian Sea.
According to a written statement by UND, the memorandum was signed during the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and Connectivity Investors Forum held on Nov. 26–27 in Tashkent, organized under the EU Global Gateway Initiative.
The agreement is described as a critical step ahead of the official establishment of the Caspian Ro-Ro Company (CRRC), enabling the launch of technical, commercial and institutional preparations.
The statement said the initiative aims to create a transparent, sustainable, green, digital and internationally accessible Ro-Ro operation model in line with the European Union’s Global Gateway principles.
With CRRC’s launch, capacity on the Caspian crossing, one of the main bottlenecks of the Middle Corridor, is expected to increase, transit times improve, and Europe–Central Asia transport routes become more balanced, resilient and sustainable.
Feasibility studies will pave the way for CRRC to strengthen connectivity across the Caspian region and accelerate sustainable Eurasian trade routes.
Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO) has officially conveyed its intention to join the initiative and invited the parties to Baku.
UND Chairman Serafettin Aras said the CRRC project is of critical importance for Türkiye’s transport sector and the future of the Middle Corridor.
“CRRC is a strong example of cooperation among regional countries. Supported not only by Türkiye, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan but also by EU institutions, this initiative will increase capacity on the Caspian crossing and contribute to the uninterrupted functioning of the Middle Corridor,” Aras said.
He emphasized that UND plays a key role in shaping this structure, which will be strategically important for Türkiye’s transport sector and regional connectivity.
“Our aim is not only to support the transport sector but also to contribute to regional development, sustainable trade and the vision for future connectivity. By taking part in this multilateral initiative, we believe we will strengthen the effectiveness of Türkiye’s transport sector along the Middle Corridor, help resolve structural issues in the Caspian crossing and create a platform that enhances confidence, attracts investment and supports long-term cooperation between the EU and regional countries,” Aras added.
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