The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway further connects Europe and Asia and strengthens the strategic importance of our region in the global trade and logistics network, said Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze during his speech at the official opening ceremony of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway line.

According to the head of government, once the route is fully operational, the railway’s annual capacity will reach 5 million tons, significantly increasing the region’s transit potential and further enhancing the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor.

“I am pleased to participate today in the official opening ceremony of the new Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway line. This is a project of historic importance. It is another clear example of the strategic partnership and exemplary cooperation between Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye.

The Georgian section of the new Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway is one of the largest infrastructure projects implemented in the region. Its length from Marabda to the Turkish border is 180 km, of which 153 km of track were rehabilitated and reconstructed, and 27 km of a completely new, modern-standard railway line was built.

Since 2017, the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway has been operating in a test mode, during which more than 1.8 million tons of cargo have been transported, including up to 90,000 containers. During this period, a clear upward trend in freight transportation has emerged, once again confirming the economic and logistical importance of this transport corridor. This railway is an integral part of the Middle Corridor, which plays a key role in connecting Europe and Asia.

With full activation of the route, the railway’s capacity will reach 5 million tons per year, significantly increasing the transit capabilities of our region and further strengthening the competitiveness of the Middle Corridor.

This project gains even greater importance amid global challenges and crises, when diversification of international trade routes and secure transport networks are essential prerequisites for economic development. The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway further brings Europe and Asia closer and strengthens the strategic importance of our region in the global trade and logistics network,” said the Prime Minister.