In keeping with traditions observed worldwide, the symbolic first stone has been laid for the new railway that will link China with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, though full-scale construction is scheduled to begin in July 2025. This trans-Asian railway corridor, stretching around 500 kilometres, is a key initiative driven by Chinese authorities as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. China has accelerated the project significantly; agreements between the three participating nations were signed on 6 June 2024, following the completion of a feasibility study in 2023. These agreements outline the framework for funding, construction, and management of the railway through a joint venture involving the state railway administrations of the three countries. The total cost is estimated at approximately €8 billion, with the project expected to take six years to complete.
The corridor will originate in Kashgar, a key node in northwestern China located roughly 100 kilometres from the Kyrgyz border, and will connect to the eastern Uzbek railway network in Andijan. Alongside the railway, modern logistical infrastructure will be developed, including freight terminals and warehouses. Upon completion, the railway is projected to transport up to 15 million tonnes of goods annually and reduce transit times across the Asian corridor to seven days. The project will follow a modular approach, with development occurring in phases based on transport demand. Initially, the railway will operate with a single track and diesel traction, with provisions for future electrification.
Historically, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have played a pivotal role in trade between China and Europe via the ancient caravan routes that linked the vast Chinese interior with the Mediterranean. While Kyrgyzstan is rugged and mountainous, Uzbekistan has reaped significant economic benefits from this trade, fostering flourishing settlements such as the renowned city of Samarkand. Now, under China’s influence, there is a renewed push to revitalise this commercial role with an eye towards Europe and the Persian Gulf.
Kashgar, the starting point of the new railway towards Uzbekistan, is not just a terminus for this corridor; it also plays a central role in another major Chinese project. This separate initiative aims to establish a connection to the Indian Ocean, particularly the port of Gwadar in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. In September 2022, Kashgar was already part of an experimental service dispatching containers to Afghanistan via a mixed road-rail route.
Piermario Curti Sacchi
