Abu Dhabi – Mubasher: AD Ports Group has signed an agreement with Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (Kazakhstan Railways) to form a joint venture (JV), according to a press release.
The JV will enhance rail connectivity and maritime shipping services in Kazakhstan’s ports, in addition to bolstering digital transformation in Central Asia.
AD Ports will hold a 51% shareholding in the joint project, while Kazakhstan Railways will acquire the remaining 49% stake.
The two parties seek to establish a dynamic hub that will transform the regional logistics landscape, and enhance trade flows and maritime efficiency. It will also reshape the Central Asia region into a new era of economic growth and logistical excellence.
Abdulaziz Zayed Al Shamsi, Regional CEO of AD Ports, said: "Our joint venture with Kazakhstan Railways has the potential to not only strengthen maritime connectivity between the Middle East and Central Asia but also open up new trade routes, making it easier and more efficient to move goods across these two regions.”
“We see this enhanced connectivity leading to increased trade volumes for the benefit of the global maritime industry,” Al Shamsi continued.
The CEO indicated: “By leveraging our combined strengths, we are set to create a thriving regional economy, which will have a positive impact on the global maritime industry through increased demand for shipping and logistics services."
Yerlan Koishibayev, Deputy CEO for Logistics of Kazakhstan Railways, commented: “The new joint venture will focus on expanding port infrastructure on the Caspian Sea, creating trade hubs, and bringing advanced digital technologies.”
The JV will be implemented in phases, with both entities collaborating to develop maritime electronic systems, vessel operations, port and trade development, in addition to railway infrastructure expansion.
Earlier this month, AD Ports and KazMorTransFlot (KMTF) joined forces to own two new vessels at a combined investment of $35 million.
