“Golden Bridge” between China and Europe: Tokayev presented a large-scale project
Tengrinews.kz — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced the launch of a new 800-kilometer highway project connecting Beyneu and Saksaulsk, citing the Akorda press service.
According to the Head of State, the road is designed not only to provide interregional connectivity but also to become a key international transport artery.
"By strengthening ties within Kazakhstan, this road will also serve as a 'golden bridge' between China and Europe. The project will directly connect checkpoints on the Chinese border with the ports of Aktau and Kuryk. As a result, the freight transport distance from the PRC to Europe will be reduced by 1,000 kilometers, and delivery time by up to 3 days. In our people's value system, digging wells and building bridges has long been considered an act of virtue and care for others. In other words, we are launching an exceptionally important initiative that will serve both our prosperity and that of our neighbors. The Beyneu–Saksaulsk highway will undoubtedly gain the status of a key transport artery of national, regional, and transcontinental significance. That is why the name 'Aral-Caspian Highway' most accurately fits this route," the Head of State noted during a teleconference marking the start of construction on the Kyzylorda–Saksaulsk, Ulgaysyn–Saksaulsk, and Beyneu–Saksaulsk roads.
In addition, the President stated that work would begin on capacity expansion and comprehensive reconstruction of the Kyzylorda–Saksaulsk and Ulgaysyn–Saksaulsk highways, totaling 774 kilometers.
"Domestic companies will be involved in these projects, which will provide jobs for over 10,000 people. Once the highways are operational, freight traffic is expected to increase 2.5-fold, reaching 13.2 million tons annually. Undoubtedly, these projects will contribute to the development of the national economy and tourism, as well as improve the population's well-being. Each project is seamlessly integrated into Kazakhstan's overall transport system. Historically established vertical transport networks are now being supplemented by horizontal links. The ultimate goal is to transform our country into one of the leading logistics hubs connecting Europe and Asia," Tokayev said.
The President noted that road transport revenue in Kazakhstan has nearly reached the level of rail transport. Therefore, the priority is not just road construction, but the creation of a modern digital ecosystem.
"Adopting a national support program for domestic carriers involving the local automotive industry will multiply our existing potential. All of this will expand Kazakhstan's transit capabilities. These 'roads of life' across the undeveloped steppes of the Aral region will turn previously dead-end routes into major intersections of Eurasia's key transport corridors. It is fundamentally important to complete all projects launched today within the strictly established timeframe—no later than 2029. All necessary conditions have been created for this. Now it is time to move to implementation. I am confident that through our joint efforts, we will successfully fulfill the task. I wish everyone good health, success, and prosperity," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev concluded.