The weight and role of Asia in global economic and technological development are steadily increasing. The primary strength of the region lies in its rich diversity, dynamic markets, and connectivity potential. Strengthening cooperation among ports can make regional connections safer, more efficient, sustainable, and beneficial for everyone.
Sea-news.az reports that these remarks were made by Kairat Sarbay, Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), during his speech at the international conference titled “The Role of Ports in Regional Connectivity and Strategic Cooperation” held in Baku.
He noted that the event brought together port authorities, transport organizations, business representatives, and international partners from all corners of Asia. The conference serves as a timely platform to discuss practical issues related to port development, maritime transport, and multimodal connectivity, which are vital for strengthening regional trade and economic cooperation.
“For the CICA region, ports are not simply physical gateways for cargo transportation. They are strategic nodes connecting maritime routes with railways, highways, airports, logistics hubs, and industrial zones. Their efficiency, security, and sustainability directly impact trade costs, market access, and the competitiveness of our economies,” the Secretary General emphasized. He highlighted that for landlocked member states, reliable links with maritime infrastructure are indispensable for full participation in regional and global trade.
The speech also recalled that the idea of establishing a dedicated council on sustainable connectivity as a CICA advisory body has been advanced at the highest political level. The core essence of this initiative is to promote dialogue and practical cooperation on sustainable transport infrastructure, multimodal corridors, digitized logistics, ecologically sustainable mobility, and smoother trade and transit flows. Such transport links and trade facilitation foster greater mutual understanding and predictable shared interests in a diverse region.
K. Sarbay specifically highlighted that special attention has been paid to connectivity issues during Azerbaijan’s chairmanship: “Today’s conference provides an opportunity to strengthen professional ties, share operational experience, and consider practical ways to support closer cooperation among port authorities of CICA member states. Within its mandate and available resources, the CICA Secretariat is ready to facilitate communication and information exchange among interested member states and to support the implementation of recommendations adopted by this conference.”
The Secretary General expressed hope that the discussions held will give impetus to future sustainable professional contacts, technical meetings, and new initiatives carried out through the voluntary hosting of member states.
