Zooming In On: The Middle Corridor in Focus: Current Dynamics and Strategic Outlook for EU-Central Asia Cooperation

Shifting global power balances and disrupted trade routes have brought new attention to Central Asia and the South Caucasus as part of an alternative path linking East and West. The Middle Corridor, running through Central Asia and the South Caucasus, is emerging as a key transit route between Europe and Asia.

Intensifying competition with Russia’s and China’s corridors, along with the Russia-Ukraine war, has undermined traditional supply chains and pushed the EU to step up its political and financial commitment. Yet, regional divides, coordination gaps, and democratic backsliding pose significant challenges. How can countries in the region work together to ensure this corridor delivers lasting benefits? What will it take for the Middle Corridor to move from potential to performance, and how can the EU support meaningful, long-term progress?

These are the core questions explored in our latest briefing note, which draws on current developments, regional dynamics, and the EU’s Global Gateway ambitions.

Download the full briefing for more details here.

Author: Mariam Matiashvili, Policy Advisor at FES Competence Centre Climate and Social Justice