Connectivity in Action: Why the Middle Corridor Is a Strategy for the Future (Podcast Episode 1, English)

 

This post is the full English script of the very first episode of my podcast:

Middle Corridor -The Path to Sustainable Development.

In this episode, I explain what the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route ) is, why it has become so important today, and what opportunities it opens up for the region, for Europe, and for investors.

You can also listen to the full episode (in Russian) on 

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[00:08] Introduction: About myself and the podcast

Hello! 
My name is Irina Birman, and you are listening to the podcast 

“Middle Corridor. The Path to Sustainable Development.”

I was born in Georgia, in the ancient city of Tbilisi, in the Ortachala district. It’s a place where Europe and Asia meet at the same table, where in one neighborhood you can hear three languages at once, and over tea you can talk about vineyards, maritime shipping, and politics.

From childhood on, I have lived at the crossroads of cultures, languages, and systems. My family has been a family of sailors for three generations. All these elements of my upbringing gave me a unique ability to see bridges where others see borders.

My professional background: I am a marine engineer and hold a PhD in economics of transport and communications. For more than 25 years I have been working in international logistics from transport and trade to large infrastructure megaprojects. For the last 15 years I have lived in the Netherlands, a country where sustainability has become not a slogan but a standard.

I have worked on projects in green energy, digital logistics, sustainable cities, and regional integration. And everywhere I saw one thing: successful solutions are born where there is connectivity  between systems, sectors, regions, and people.

And this is exactly what this podcast is about.

[01:29] What is Connectivity

When I say “connectivity,” I don’t mean only roads, trains, or the internet.

It’s the coordinated work of infrastructure, logistics, digital technologies, regulations, and human interaction. It is a whole ecosystem where everything reinforces each other.

Imagine: energy connected with the agricultural sector.

Here is one example: a Dutch greenhouse that not only grows vegetables but also serves as a generator of energy and heat for an entire residential community.

In 2018, I organized a study tour for UNDP Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan to the Netherlands. We took our group senior officials and energy specialists to one of the modern Dutch greenhouses.

At first glance, what do a greenhouse, a hectare of cucumbers or tomatoes, and renewable energy have in common? But in the Netherlands, everything works differently.

Inside the perfect climate for plants, automatic irrigation systems, sensors for humidity and light. But the most surprising part came when our group realized that this greenhouse not only consumes energy… it actually produces it!

The surplus heat and electricity generated there do not go to waste; they are supplied to the neighbors. More than forty homes in the nearby residential area receive heating and electricity from this greenhouse.

I remember watching our participants exchange looks, jot down calculations, whisper: “Why don’t we do this?”

That was the moment when the usual perception “a greenhouse = consumer” flipped upside down. Even the agricultural sector can become an energy producer if the processes are properly organized.

 source: 4th Edition Innovation Media

 Back to connectivity, here are more examples:

— logistics using digital platforms,
— customs services of different countries operating under unified standards.

This is not just a collection of projects. It is a living organism.

I like the term “interconnected systems.” It conveys the idea of living interaction, not only technical linkage.

And another concept I use is the Value of Connectivity (VOC). 

Today we will leave it as an idea. Details will come in the future episodes.

 

[04:12] Why It Matters Now

Why are we talking about this now?

Because the world is changing. For many years, the Middle Corridor or the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route was considered a backup option. The main flows went through the northern land route or by sea via Suez.

But recent years have shown: relying on only one or two directions is a risk. Any delay, crisis, or force majeure and the chain breaks.

The Middle Corridor removes this dependency. It connects Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia through a combination of land and sea. But most importantly it creates new regional value chains, new markets for both micro and macro economies.

The Middle Corridor is not new. Back in the times of the Great Silk Road, caravans from China to Europe passed through these very lands.

Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tadjikistan, Armenia. For centuries, trade routes, cultures, and technologies intertwined here.

When I wrote my book The New Silk Road Book, I looked at this region as a living organism that is awakening again. The book brings together historical facts, modern projects, and a vision of how the Middle Corridor can become a guide to sustainable development.

[05:49] Personal Examples

In my professional life, I have seen how the idea of connectivity transforms into real results.

Here is a recent example. I worked as an advisor for a large European logistics company and helped design and launch a multimodal route Rotterdam → Astana.

On paper, everything looked perfect: Georgian ports, Azerbaijani railways, the ferry across the Caspian, Kazakhstan. But in practice, the key was not the number of trains or ships, but synchronization: customs, documentation, standards, and communication between countries and companies.

                                                                                  Port of Kursk, Kazakhstan (Photo by the author, 2024)

And then, in the middle of this work, we faced a situation that in Europe would be almost unthinkable: we needed to send a telegram to the Georgian Railways. Yes, a real telegram!

For us Europeans, it felt like traveling back in time. But in the railway systems of the South Caucasus and Central Asia, this mechanism is still in use and in critical situations, it is indispensable.

This is where the value of connectivity truly showed itself. We were working in partnership with KTZ Express, and it was their expertise, their knowledge of local procedures, and their access to this system that allowed us to resolve the issue quickly. Without that partnership, the route would have been blocked.

In the end, it was the interaction  between Europe’s modern digital solutions and the region’s time-tested instruments that made this project sustainable and replicable.

That is what real connectivity means: when different experiences and different systems merge into one working chain.

 

[07:51] Another Example — Kazakhstan Study Tour

Another example — the study tour of the Kazakhstan Ministry of Energy to the Netherlands in 2018.
I mentioned it earlier, but I want to tell you a bit more.

It wasn’t just an excursion. It was a carefully built chain: training → pilots → scaling.

We visited several cities, but one moment stands out vividly in my memory. (pause)
We went to the Maasvlakte area of Rotterdam, to a power station, and also to Futurland — the information center of the Port of Rotterdam. There they show what the port of the future will look like, what technologies and horizons of innovation are coming.

                                                                 Maasvlakte, Rotterdam (Photo by the author, 2022)

There, participants were invited to put on VR glasses and literally step into the future. 

Everyone was watching, smiling, discussing… The session ended, I began gathering the group to the bus. But one person was missing. 
I went back to the hall — and he was still sitting there with the VR headset on.

I approached, called him. He took off the glasses, looked at me and quietly said:
“I don’t want to leave. I want to see more…”

For me, as the organizer, those words were very touching. 
Because at that moment, I realized: everything we were showing was truly inspiring.

And today, renewable energy projects in Kazakhstan have not only achieved their goals, they have surpassed them. The contribution of such knowledge exchanges, such moments of inspiration, is absolutely real.

[13:19] EU Investment Plans for 2025

The Middle Corridor today is not just a line on a map.
It is a complex, multilayered system that connects people, resources, technologies, rules, and interests.

If we speak metaphorically it is an artery, carrying new blood into the economy of the whole region.

The Middle Corridor brings together several powerful directions at once:

·       Logistics. Ports of Poti and Batumi, Baku, and the Caspian. Modernized railways in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan. And of course, the new Zangezur Corridor a project discussed not only in political terms, but also as a serious economic breakthrough. If it comes into full operation, delivery times will be reduced, and logistics combinations will become much more flexible.

·       Energy. The Caspian winds, the Black Sea winds, the sun of the steppes. Pilot hydrogen projects are already being tested, while geothermal energy is still waiting for its moment, but its potential is enormous.

·       Agriculture. This is a special pride of the region. Fruits, nuts, wines, vegetables that can compete in global markets.

At the Tashkent market, Uzbekistan (Photo by the author, 2023)

Take, for example, the Uzbek melon. Its honey sweetness, juicy flesh, and unique aroma cannot be confused with anything else. But there is a catch it cannot be transported by conventional means. With every extra day on the road, it loses its taste. To deliver it fresh, as if from a market in Samarkand, special logistics and fast supply chains are needed.
Or the Azerbaijani tomato. If you taste it fresh, warmed by the sun, with that rich aroma you will never forget it. That flavor cannot be replicated in a supermarket far from its homeland.

Add to this modern irrigation and processing technologies, and the region’s agricultural sector becomes capable of exporting not just raw produce, but also value-added products, while preserving their uniqueness and freshness.

·       Digitalization. Electronic documents, cargo tracking systems, integration of customs services. Even the rise of IT start-ups and emerging “Silicon Valleys” in Central Asia.

·       People. A young generation fluent in several languages, comfortable in multicultural environments, and quick to learn new things. And the diaspora, spread around the world, remaining a bridge between this region and Europe, Asia, and America.

In 2025, the European Union plans to invest about €12 billion into the development of infrastructure and digitalization of the Middle Corridor, as part of the Global Gateway program.

And this is not an abstract figure. These are specific projects: modernization of ports, improvement of railway hubs, creation of multimodal logistics centers, development of digital freight platforms, and the unification of procedures between countries.

What does this mean for businesses inside the region?

1.     Faster delivery. Goods spend less time in transit, which means less money “frozen” in containers and wagons. Capital works faster.

2.     Lower costs. Streamlined logistics means lower transport expenses making companies more competitive abroad, either through better prices or reinvestment into growth.

3.     Predictability. When you know exactly when and how your cargo will arrive, you can plan exports, production, and procurement with far greater accuracy. Less dependency on surprises means fewer risks.

4.     New markets. When infrastructure and routes function properly, logistics stops being a barrier. Instead, it becomes an incentive — a way to expand supply geography and enter markets that were previously too difficult or expensive to reach.

[16:26] Why Europe Is Looking Closely at the Middle Corridor

Why is Europe paying such close attention to the Middle Corridor?

First, geopolitics.
The world is becoming less predictable. The EU needs an alternative, reliable, and secure route connecting Europe with Asia.

Second, economics.
The Middle Corridor represents a new market that can be integrated into Europe’s production and logistics chains.

Third, the green agenda.
The Corridor can be developed almost from scratch according to low-carbon standards. This fits perfectly into the EU’s climate strategy.

So for Europe, the Middle Corridor is not just about transport. It is about resilience, diversification, and the opportunity to create a new sustainable link between East and West.

 

[17:04] Why Investors Are Ready to Invest

And why are investors ready to put their money here?

Because this is one of the few regions where several strong factors come together at once:

·       Rich natural resources.

·       A young and flexible workforce.

·       Readiness for partnerships.

·       A strategic location at the crossroads of key routes.

For business, this is a window of opportunity that will not remain open for long. Those who enter the region now can set standards, build partnerships, and secure strong positions in a rapidly growing market.

The Middle Corridor is not just a line on the map. It is a chance for Europe and the region to create an interconnected, sustainable, and competitive system where everyone benefits.

And that is why the conversation about the Value of Connectivity (VOC) will run like a red thread throughout all of our episodes.

[18:05] Call to Action for the Listener

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Many projects of the Middle Corridor have not even been announced publicly yet, but they are already in preparation.

If you are curious to know what exactly will be built and launched in the coming years which hubs, green energy facilities, and digital solutions are on the way, I am ready to share this knowledge.

As an expert, I see these processes from the inside and I understand how they will influence business and investment.

[18:42] Closing and Next Episode

The Middle Corridor is not only geography. 
It is a strategy for the future.

And in the next episode, we will look at it from a different angle through the Dutch perspective on sustainable logistics.

We will talk with a guest from the Netherlands about how European experience in planning, management, and digitalization of logistics can contribute to the development of the Middle Corridor. There will be many ideas, concrete examples, and perhaps even unexpected solutions that can already be applied today.
I am sure this episode will be interesting for everyone working in international trade, logistics, infrastructure projects, as well as for investors, policymakers, and experts who want to better understand the region’s potential.

You can listen to me here, on this platform or find my podcast on other services as well. All links are in the description.

There you will also find a link to my book The New Silk Road Book a guide to the sustainable development of the Middle Corridor as well as to Innovation Media journals on innovation and regional growth:

And of course, 

my email: ivb@stroomi.nl 

my LinkedIn

where we share new projects, news, and ideas.

Follow the links, write to me, share your thoughts and questions.

Thank you for being with me. See you next time! 

And remember: the future is built through connectivity.

 

UZBEKISTAN - Pioneering Sustainable Development and Global Connectivity on the New Silk Road

    In July 2023, I had the privilege of serving as an independent observer during Uzbekistan's presidential elections, representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands. From the moment I arrived in Tashkent, I was deeply moved by the warm hospitality extended to me by the people of Uzbekistan. Among the individuals who left a lasting impression on me was the esteemed Dr. Dilorom I. Akhmedova, Director The Republic Specialized Scientific Practical Medical Centre of Pediatrics, Doctor of Medicine, Professor. Her charm and hospitality introduced me to many prominent figures in Tashkent, enriching my experience in this vibrant city.

Financial University of Uzbekistan, July 2023, Tashkent

President of Finacial University, Doctor of Economics, Professor Tulkin Teshabayev, Dr. Irina Birman PhD,       Professor Dilorom I. Akhmedova

    A particularly enlightening encounter occurred at the Ministry of Education and Innovation of Uzbekistan, where I learned of the country's recent strides towards environmentally conscious practices, laying a solid foundation for innovation and progress.

 

    At the core of Uzbekistan's Green Revolution lies a concerted effort to engage its youth. Initiatives like the Yashnabad Technopark serve as incubators for nurturing talent and fostering innovation among the younger generation. By creating avenues for employment and entrepreneurship in the green technology sector, Uzbekistan not only drives economic growth but also ensures a sustainable pipeline of talent for future endeavors.

Ministry of Education and Innovation of Uzbekistan, July 2023, Tashkent 

    The significant financial investments in research and development further underscore Uzbekistan's commitment to innovation. With over 1 trillion soums allocated between 2018 and 2020, the country actively fosters an ecosystem conducive to the growth of green technologies. Collaborations with international partners enrich this landscape, bringing diverse perspectives and accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices.

 

    A shining example of Uzbekistan's strategic support for green startups is the establishment of a national venture fund with a capital of 15 billion soums. This initiative aims to nurture and accelerate the growth of innovative ideas in the green technology sector, providing vital resources for entrepreneurs to flourish.

    On the social front, Uzbekistan proactively promotes eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyles among its rural populations. Initiatives such as Technobus and Smart School raise awareness about environmental consciousness and equip communities with practical tools to embrace eco-friendly practices, ensuring widespread participation in the sustainability movement.

 

    Dear Ms. Dilorom Akhmedova also shared with me information about the development of healthcare in Uzbekistan:

In response to the global health crisis, Uzbekistan's innovations in the healthcare sector are commendable. With a population exceeding 40 million, Uzbekistan has demonstrated remarkable resilience and ingenuity in addressing healthcare challenges. Initiatives such as joint vaccine development highlight the country's integration of advanced technologies to build a resilient healthcare system, prioritizing the well-being of its citizens during challenging times.

 

July 2023, Chorsu Bazar, Tashkent city

    Uzbekistan's progress in green city innovation exemplifies its commitment to global sustainable development goals. Positioned as a gateway to vast markets along the New Silk Road and the Middel Corridor, Uzbekistan offers promising opportunities for international businesses across multiple sectors. In banking, the transition from public to private capital, coupled with favorable conditions for foreign investors, signals an attractive investment environment. The comprehensive privatization decree signed in March 2023 opens doors for international businesses seeking partnerships and investment opportunities in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and infrastructure projects.

 

    In the education sector, Uzbekistan's ambitious plan to expand university attendance and establish new institutions presents opportunities for collaboration with foreign universities. The nation's focus on tourism, coupled with incentives for infrastructure development, creates avenues for investment in the hospitality and construction sectors.

 

    Furthermore, Uzbekistan's burgeoning demand for food products and advancements in agriculture make it an appealing market for suppliers of food processing and packaging technologies. The government's emphasis on ICT development under the "Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 Strategy" also fuels demand for IT solutions.

    In conclusion, Uzbekistan's evolving economic landscape and steadfast commitment to reforms position it as a gateway for businesses seeking growth along the New Silk Road and the Middel Corridor, while its dedication to sustainable development underscores its leadership on the global stage.

 

 

my memory of Uzbekistan 2023...

Paving the Sustainable Path from Astana to Green Cities

In 2018, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the Netherlands sent us an invitation to visit Astana. Together with our colleague from De Telegraaf, we entered the daily life of the capital of Kazakhstan and took part in events dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Astana. By the way, Astana is an extraordinary city, and we will talk about its unique charm in our next blogs about Kazakhstan.

A turning point occurred during our delegation's presence at the Silk Road Mayors' Roundtable, where UN Climate Change Ambassador and Nobel laureate Rae Kwon Chung gave a speech that launched our ambitious New Silk Road Book project.

Mr. Rae Kwon Chung's key message resonated deeply: the ancient Silk Road, which was once a trade route connecting different regions, is now facing challenges related to climate change. However, these challenges hold enormous potential for harnessing renewable energy, addressing food security crises, mitigating health impacts and promoting sustainable urban development. Silk Road countries can turn the climate crisis into an opportunity for sustainable development.

The Nobel laureate highlighted the possibilities:

Renewable energy sources: meeting energy demand and industrial competitiveness.

Addressing food security and health impacts: Investing in renewable energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure a secure food supply.

Urban Migration: Creating Sustainable Urban Environments to Enable Rapid Urbanisation.

Super Grid: Connecting renewable energy sources to optimise production and improve energy security.

This message helped us define four key pillars of sustainable development for the New Silk Road Books project: green energy, green mobility, food security and green cities. And now, starting from 2024, we, as European experts of the Middle Corridor, can affirmatively say that all these four sustainable directions are developing in the regions of the New Middle Silk Road.

A practical example is the success of renewable energy development in Kazakhstan: in 2018 and 2019, our company organizes study tours for Kazakh delegations of government decision makers (senators, TOP managers of the energy industry of Kazakhstan and UNDP delegates in Kazakhstan in the Netherlands and Denmark). The main purpose of these visits was to enhance the knowledge and experience of participating government officials and decision makers in the field of renewable energy development, drawing on the successful experiences of the Netherlands and Denmark with large- and small-scale renewable energy and green energy projects. 

In 2020, our Kazakh pioneers reported impressive progress - 123 facilities with a capacity of 1,897 MW have been formed and are operating in the green energy market of Kazakhstan. 

This is an example of high results in the education and development of Kazakhstan’s energy networks. 
It is our message to Dutch business and an invitation to look at the prospects of the new Middle Corridor market for their innovations and technologies.

How Can Dutch Innovation Drive Progress?

One of the key problems is the lack of green city initiatives. Rapid urbanisation and population growth along the Middle Corridor have led to increased energy consumption, waste generation, and pollution. Building sustainable and eco-friendly cities is crucial to minimising the environmental impact and improving the quality of life for residents. Dutch technology and innovation in urban planning, architecture, and sustainable infrastructure can play a significant role in developing green cities along the corridor. The Dutch expertise in circular economy principles, smart grids, and sustainable building materials can contribute to the implementation of green city initiatives and the creation of environmentally-friendly urban spaces.

Renewable energy is another important aspect that needs to be addressed in the Middle Corridor. The region has abundant renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, and hydropower. However, the development and utilisation of renewable energy sources remain limited. Dutch technology and innovation in renewable energy, such as advanced solar panel technologies, offshore wind farms, and energy storage systems, can support the transition to a more sustainable energy mix along the corridor. Collaboration between Dutch and local companies and institutions can facilitate knowledge transfer and the implementation of renewable energy projects.

Green mobility is a critical issue for the Middle Corridor. The transportation sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Dutch expertise in electric mobility, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure and battery technologies, can contribute to the adoption of electric vehicles along the corridor. Furthermore, Dutch experience in developing efficient public transportation systems, such as integrated mobility solutions and smart transportation technologies, can improve the accessibility and sustainability of transportation in the region.

The agro and food sector also face challenges in the Middle Corridor. The region has vast agricultural potential, but issues such as water scarcity, soil degradation, and inefficient farming practices hinder agricultural productivity and food security. Dutch technology and innovation in agriculture, such as precision farming, hydroponics, and water management systems, can help optimize agricultural practices and enhance productivity. Collaboration between Dutch agricultural experts and local farmers can facilitate knowledge sharing and the adoption of sustainable farming techniques. Additionally, Dutch expertise in food processing and storage technologies can contribute to reducing post-harvest losses and improving the efficiency of the agro and food supply chains along the corridor.

By leveraging Dutch technology and innovation, the Middle Corridor can accelerate its sustainable development goals in areas such as green city initiatives, renewable energy, green mobility, and agro and food systems. Collaboration with Dutch companies, research institutions, and government agencies can facilitate the transfer of knowledge, expertise, and technologies, supporting the implementation of sustainable solutions. This collaboration can not only address the specific challenges faced by the Middle Corridor but also create opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and knowledge exchange. By combining the strengths of Dutch technology and innovation with local resources and expertise, the Middle Corridor can achieve a more sustainable and resilient future.

Join us in shaping a greener world! 

#NewSilkRoad #SustainableDevelopment #GreenInnovation

Our archive:

Sustained Progress on the New Silk Road in the Middle Corridor

In the dynamic space of the Middle Corridor, the modern Silk Road has gained new strength of revival with the economic evolution of the Caucasus and Central Asia. These unique regions, once the site of the caravanserais of the ancient Silk Road, have now become active links in the modern transport corridor of the new Silk Road, known as the Middle Corridor.

Since gaining independence in 1991, the countries of the Caucasus and Central Asia have embarked on a steady path towards market economies. With impressive growth rates averaging 7% between 1996 and 2011, these regions have outperformed global peers, effectively reducing poverty and setting the stage for economic recovery.

The logistics and transport infrastructure of the Middle Corridor are becoming a guiding force promoting trade and economic relations between the countries of the Silk Road. This complex network becomes the core of a sustainable future, transforming cities such as Astana, Almaty, Tashkent, Bishkek, Tbilisi, Yerevan and Baku into dynamic centers of sustainable development. These urban centers are not just spectators of history; they are the architects of a new heritage that goes beyond the mere preservation of historical genes and technologies.

Sustainable development, which includes economic vitality, environmental awareness and cultural preservation, is the cornerstone of the evolution of the modern Silk Road.

The revival of the Silk Road is a catalyst for sustainable development through active regional cooperation. Collaborative efforts in infrastructure development, renewable energy initiatives and cultural heritage preservation create a vibrant uniqueness of these regions that resonates with the interconnected spirit of the golden era of the Silk Road.

In the 21st century, the Silk Road is experiencing a profound renaissance, marked by a dynamic shift towards green technologies, cleaner production and widespread adoption of sustainable practices. Tashkent, with its vibrant trade dynamics, is leading economic growth coupled with environmentally conscious development, setting a huge precedent. Bishkek stands out for its forward-thinking initiatives that embody innovation and sustainability along the Silk Road.

July 2023, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

International election observer to Uzbekistan's presidential election.

Tbilisi, a city that combines culture and commerce, paints a vibrant portrait of a unique Silk Road city thriving on diversity and creativity, demonstrating the intersection of cultural heritage and environmental conservation. Baku, emerging as a logistics and economic hub, symbolizes the economic resilience and growth potential inherent in the cities of the Silk Road.

Astana and Almaty in Kazakhstan, along with Yerevan in Armenia, make significant contributions to the modern narrative of the Silk Road. Astana, a beacon of green development with a harmonious combination of modern architecture and sustainable urban planning, sets a precedent. Almaty, as the largest city in Kazakhstan, actively supports green initiatives for a sustainable future. Yerevan adds a rich cultural palette to the sustainable transformation of the Silk Road, emphasizing a commitment to preserving historical roots while embracing modern sustainable practices.

The modern Silk Road seamlessly combines economic vitality with environmental responsibility, going beyond the revival of ancient trade routes. This roadmap, now called the Middle Corridor, serves as a guiding framework, positioning sustainable development as the foundation for success in today's global economy.

The Middle Corridor, the most important multimodal transport route linking China with Europe, serves as a strategic route consistent with the principles of the New Silk Road. This corridor embodies resilience, innovation and adaptability in the face of ever-changing geopolitical challenges.

Our research journey went beyond visual documentation and involved experts and business representatives in the Middle Corridor countries. Maersk, a key player in the global logistics market, enthusiastically confirmed the economic attractiveness of this route. The seaport of Poti in Georgia, Europe's most important gateway to the Middle Corridor, has undergone transformational changes, attracting significant investment and signaling its growing importance in global trade.

In a conversation with Mr. Irakli Danelia, Business Development Manager for Central Asia and the Caucasus at Maersk, the paramount importance of the relevance and prospects of the Middle Corridor resonated strongly. The growing importance of this route, reflected in the port's exponential growth, underscores its role as a transformative force in sustainable global trade. The echoes of the Silk Road are not just historical whispers, but resonant calls for a modern Renaissance. Characterized by resilience, innovation and adaptability, the modern Silk Road tells a story of progress that transcends time, uniting the diverse cultures and landscapes of the Middle Corridor in a dynamic path to sustainable prosperity.

September 2023, Tbilisi, Georgia

Our meeting with Mr. Irakli Danelia and Ms. Nicole van Haelst. 

Georgian sericulture and Dutch bio base technology

Greetings from the esteemed confines of the Silk Museum in Tbilisi. Our visit to this oldest museum in Georgia became an integral part of our expedition, which traces the historical contours of the Silk Road with the features of the Middle Corridor.

Our attention, as experienced Dutch experts specializing in the field of circular and sustainable economy, was drawn to Georgia's unique historical experience in the field of sericulture. In the halls of the museum we have collected many intriguing discoveries.

 

These discoveries will help us demonstrate how these historical lessons can be restarted using modern innovation and technology in Western Europe's circular economy and economic sustainability. Using a case study from Georgia, we aim to highlight potential pathways to a strong and sustainable economic future for the entire Middle Corridor of the Silk Road.

 

Sericulture, tracing its roots back to 5th-century Georgia, has emerged as a pivotal player in the nation's economic landscape, boasting multifaceted benefits. King Vakhtang Gorgasali's introduction of grena (worm eggs) from India, coupled with Georgia's abundance of wild mulberry and strategic location on trade routes like the Silk Road, laid the foundations for a thriving sericulture industry.

 

Over the course of history, Georgia actively engaged in trade along the Silk Road, leveraging its strategic geopolitical position to establish itself as a prominent silk producer. The high quality of Georgian silk found acceptance in both Eastern and Western markets, further solidifying the country's role in the silk trade.

However, in the latter half of the 20th century, sericulture in Georgia faced a downturn. Microplasma diseases affecting mulberry plantations, challenges linked to land privatization, and a fuel crisis contributed to a significant decline in the silkworm cocoon production. This decline extended into the 1990s, causing a sharp reduction in silk thread and fabric production. The economic ramifications were severe, exacerbated by the absence of silk weaving factories and the challenges associated with transitioning to a market economy.

 

Between 1990 and 2000, the silkworm cocoon production in Georgia plummeted by approximately 2.9 times, leading to a corresponding drop in silk thread production. Finished silk fabric output per capita saw a drastic decrease from 1.4 sq. m. in 1990 to 0.06 sq.m. by 1997.

Recognizing the global importance of the silk industry, Georgia initiated efforts to revive sericulture in 2013. The revival strategy involved importing 100,000 the silkworm seedlings from Uzbekistan, distributed free of charge to farmers and small entrepreneurs. Focused on mulberry breeding, a crucial aspect of sericulture, this initiative aimed to stimulate small farms, foster small businesses, and generate employment in rural areas.

 

Despite past challenges, the potential for economic rejuvenation in Georgia's sericulture industry remains high. Other countries of the Silk Road, such as Azerbaijan, actively investing in the sector, signal a broader trend emphasizing the renewed significance of the silk industry in Middle Corridor.

 

We were amazed at the relevance of this information to our project! 

Reviving classical sericulture in Georgia through the integration of modern biotechnology not only honors cultural heritage, but also provides an opportunity to usher in a new era of circular and sustainable economy in the region. Building on Georgia's historical experience in sericulture, the introduction of modern innovations expands the industry's reach beyond traditional practices, creating new, sustainable products.

 

Therefore, we want to be inspired by the circular economy program of the Netherlands in the countries of the Middle Corridor and in particular Georgia. Combined with Dutch Greenport's Bio Base programs targeting various environmental aspects, this approach, coupled with the Human Capital Development Program, provides a comprehensive and continually improving system based on social values.

 

Modern technologies and Bio Base innovations are opening up vast opportunities for sericulture, demonstrating its potential beyond traditional markets. Silk threads with unique properties, such as poor electrical and thermal conductivity, find universal application in various industries, demonstrating the adaptability of sericulture to modern needs.

 

The economic effect of the resumption of sericulture in Georgia goes beyond the production of silk products and solves modern problems. The initiative opens up new markets, uses by-products for industrial applications and opens up opportunities for entrepreneurship. This multifaceted approach has the potential to create a new labor market and make a significant contribution to Georgia's economic prosperity.

 

By applying innovative approaches, Georgia can position itself as a leader in sericulture, setting an example for sustainable development. This leadership role serves as the cornerstone of our The New Silk Road Book project, where we emphasize that the success of local efforts lies not only in preserving cultural heritage, but also in demonstrating how Western European innovation and technology can be applied to the Middle East corridor regions. Silk Road. This example of the revival of Georgian sericulture demonstrates the transformative power of sustainable infrastructure and lifestyles, offering a model for other regions to follow. Through joint efforts, regions along the Middle Silk Road corridor can harness innovation to create a sustainable future that aligns with global sustainable development goals.