Lavrov: North-South Transportation Corridor essential for BRICS Trade

By Rhod Mackenzie

The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that, like many Eurasian states, Russia is interested in transport corridors and the creation of logistics transport chains that are not subject to Western policies.

According to the head of the Russian Foreign Ministry, like most countries in Eurasia, Russia is interested in new corridors that offer faster and cheaper logistics for goods compared to the current routes through the Suez Canal or around Africa. The statement was made during a press conference following participation in UN Security Council events, as reported by the TASS agency.

Lavrov highlighted that these nations are keen on establishing logistics transport chains that are independent of the West and those who exploit their position in global trade and transport routes.

The minister suggested various options for developing such transport routes, including the North-South corridor, which enables swift, efficient, and reliable delivery of cargo from the Baltic Sea to the Persian Gulf. There is a plan to connect Russian ports in the Far East and India. Lavrov listed the Europe-Middle East-India initiative, promoted by Western Europeans.

However, the priority for Russia is the North-South corridor, which will benefit India directly. The corridor will pass through Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran and then to India. The Russian Foreign Minister clarified that Pakistan is also interested in this route.