Publications
China’s Middle Corridor Push Puts Europe in the Slow Lane 
By Elkhan NURIYEV, PhD, Senior Fellow at the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
As Central Asia reshapes Eurasian trade routes, with China and Turkey consolidating influence, Europe faces a strategic test: adapt quickly to stay relevant or risk being sidelined in one of the 21st century’s most consequential connectivity shifts. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Central Asia has emerged as a critical hub in a reshaped Eurasian trade network. Countries from Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan are diversifying transit routes to reduce dependence on Russia, giving new prominence to the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) – better known as the Middle Corridor. This corridor links China to Europe via Central Asia and the South Caucasus, bypassing traditional northern routes through Russia. READ MORE
Publications
Economic Implications of the Washington Declaration for Azerbaijan and Armenia
By Aytaс Mahammadova, Energy Security Expert affiliated with the Caspian-Alpine Society
The Washington Declaration of August 2025 marks a turning point for the South Caucasus, unlocking unprecedented economic opportunities through peace, open borders, and the TRIPP corridor. Enhanced trade, investment, and energy cooperation promise regional integration, job creation, and sustainable growth, positioning Azerbaijan, and Armenia as key hubs in global value chains.
The historic Washington Declaration of August 8, 2025, represents a transformative moment not only for regional stability but for the economic prosperity of the entire South Caucasus region. The establishment of sustainable peace between these two nations unlocks unprecedented economic opportunities that extend far beyond the immediate benefits of ending hostilities, creating a foundation for long-term economic integration, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation that could serve as a model for conflict resolution worldwide. The economic dividends of peace are multifaceted, encompassing direct benefits from increased foreign investment, enhanced trade relationships, and the opening of previously closed borders, as well as indirect benefits from improved regional stability, and the ability to redirect resources from defence to productive economic activities. READ MORE
Publications
Stories of Resilience and Innovation: Women in Afghanistan Under the Taliban 
By Shanthie Mariet D’SOUZA, PhD, founder & president, Mantraya Institute for Strategic Studies (MISS)
The dominant narrative on women in Afghanistan, one that appears fairly regularly in international media, is a story of restrictions, denial, and loss of rights. Under the Taliban’s Islamic Emirate, the rights of women are under siege. It is arguably one of the key reasons why the regime’s yearning for broad international recognition is yet to actualize. However, what is often missed are the stories of courage, adaptation, and resilience by Afghan women who, while living within those structural constraints, are trying to make a difference. And to an extent, even the de facto Taliban authorities acknowledge this reality. Any hope that things would change for the better in the future must take note of these windows of opportunities and build on the agency exhibited by women inside Afghanistan who are navigating a complex terrain. READ MORE
Publications
Digitalization Strategies along the Middle Corridor: Transforming Trans-Eurasian Logistics 
By Vusal GULIYEV, Policy Advisor at the Center of Analysis of International Relations and Head of Shanghai Office at AZEGLOB Consulting Group
With the Middle Corridor emerging as a secure and strategic land- and sea-based trade route, major stakeholders are making extensive efforts to develop the necessary infrastructure for further modernization and digitalization of such a complex multimodal trans-regional pathway. Nevertheless, government-led digital transformation strategies have enabled the political leadership of the involved states to implement advanced digital solutions, seamlessly integrating multiple services and optimizing cargo flows within the Sino-European trade network in a secure and intelligent manner. To meet international market demands and strengthen integration into the global transport network, the development of technologically advanced facilities has become a top priority in ensuring both the resilience and sustainability of the Middle Corridor. As geopolitical and economic dynamics continue to evolve dramatically, a strategic focus on digital transformation, automation, and intergovernmental coordination will become increasingly instrumental in positioning the Middle Corridor as a key pillar of trans-Eurasian trade, reinforcing its role as a secure, efficient, and future-ready trade and transportation corridor. READ MORE
