Sustainable infrastructure development problems in Central Asia

Abstract

This article is devoted to the 9th goal of the POST 2015 Programme – creation of resilient infrastructure,
facilitation of inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. The condition
and development level of transport infrastructure is an essential factor in formation and acceleration of
sustainable development of regions and their effective cooperation. Issues of resilient infrastructure development
bear peculiar traits in Central Asia region, because they are in need of overcoming geographic
isolation, solving the problem of being inaccessible and dependent on countries, which provide them an
avenues to world markets. Successful solution of infrastructure issues gives Central Asia states opportunities
to diversify the resources of state revenues, create new sectors of economy and reduce dependence
on raw materials export. As for the Kazakhstani government, it prioritizes promotion of competitiveness
on the global market of services, and correspondingly, stimulation of trade flows growth through its territory.
This paper also discusses the influence of the geopolitical situation in Central Asia on the «Silk Road
Economic Belt» initiative realization.
Key words: Central Asia, sustainable development, transport corridors, program “Nurly Zhol», initiative
«One Belt – one Road», TRACECA.