Remarks at the Launch of the Implementation Plan for the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport 2026-2035

Delivered by Ms. Nigar Bayramli, Second Secretary

10 December 2025

Madame. Chair,
Excellencies,

I would like to start by thanking the distinguished speakers for their insightful remarks and welcome the launch of the Implementation Plan for the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035). We appreciate the clear vision presented through the six priority areas, which provide a timely and practical framework for advancing climate resilient, innovative and sound transport systems as an integral driver of sustainable development.

For Azerbaijan, sustainable transport is both a policy priority and a key development path under the Socio-Economic Development Strategy for 2022-2026. Positioned strategically at the crossroads of North–South and East–West trade routes, Azerbaijan has invested heavily in modern, multimodal transport networks that shorten transit times and lower costs. The Trans-Caspian International Transit Corridor (known as the Middle Corridor) now serves as a key bridge between Asia and Europe, with cargo volumes increasing by nearly 90 percent since 2022.

Chair, connectivity is a strategic priority for all landlocked countries, as also emphasized in the Awaza Programme of Action. In this context, the Transport Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) will ensure unimpeded access between the main part of Azerbaijan and its Nakhichevan region, further enhancing the efficiency of the Middle Corridor and strengthening regional ties. We believe that this project will open new opportunities for trade, connectivity, and dialogue, contributing to greater stability and prosperity in the region.

At the same time, we recognize that connectivity needs to extend into the digital domain, beyond physical infrastructure. Together with the partners, we are advancing the ambitious Digital Silk Way project, a fiber-optic cable system under the Caspian Sea that will connect Asia and Europe through a secure, high-capacity, and resilient digital network.  Closely linked to the Plan’s focus on people-centered urban mobility and livable cities, Azerbaijan is also preparing to host the 13th session of the World Urban Forum in Baku next year in May, which will provide an important platform to advance sustainable urban planning, low-carbon mobility solutions and resilient infrastructure.

Over the past decade, we have made significant commitments to greening our transport systems, including the transformation of liberated territories through the establishment of designated green energy zones. These efforts are reinforced through the COP29 Action Agenda initiatives integrated into Azerbaijan’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution, which identifies the transport sector as a priority area for emissions mitigation. Through policy levers, investment frameworks, and technology adoption, we are working to advance low-carbon, environmentally sound transport systems that promote both climate resilience and inclusive access, closely aligned with the goals of the newly launched Implementation Plan.

In closing, Azerbaijan stands ready to contribute actively to the collective endeavors outlined in the Implementation Plan for the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport to ensure that transport serves not only as a driver of economic growth, but as a cornerstone of equitable, resilient, and sustainable development for all.

Thank you