In 2014, I was heavily involved in the U.S. Military's Northern Distribution Network, which consisted of supply routes that ran from the Baltic states of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, through the Southern Caucasus regions of Georgia and Azerbaijan, and finally into Central Asia, covering Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan before reaching Afghanistan. 

During that time, the routes ran fairly smoothly and predictably from the Baltic states to the Southern Caucasus. However, once we entered Central Asia, we encountered numerous delays, problems, and challenges. The transit times through these countries were unpredictable due to constantly changing processes and procedures at each border crossing. There was a lack of coordination regarding customs procedures and the required paperwork, which seemed to vary daily. This led to constant negotiations with local government officials to facilitate the trucks’ passage. These issues were particularly troubling for the U.S. military, as timely delivery of critical supplies—food, water, and other essentials—was crucial for our troops in Afghanistan. Establishing a smooth and predictable route was not just operationally important; it was a national security interest.

Unfortunately, many of these bureaucratic challenges still persist, inhibiting the flow of goods and services throughout Central Asia and to the rest of the world. So, why should the United States care? The establishment of the Northern Distribution Network was not only aimed at increasing military efficiency but also at strengthening relations with Central Asian countries while boosting their economies. Continuing to engage in the region and improving the flow of goods and services is essential for enhancing our national security and furthering our national interests.

All of these activities strengthen the national security of the United States and serve our vital interests in Central Asia. When economies are thriving, threats diminish, and challenges such as rebellion, insurrection, and uprisings are significantly reduced. A notable project is currently underway in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) and funded by the U.S. Department of State. The CLDP's mission is to "work with emerging economies to improve the policy and regulatory conditions for trade, investment, and commercial activity."

The first meeting of the expert group for the Trans-Caspian Trade Route Coordination Platform was held September 18-20, 2024, in Aktau, Kazakhstan. This effort was led by Tamar Satterwhite, Senior Counsel for CLDP, and Thomas Choi, International Program Specialist for CLDP, with funding from the U.S. Department of State and in partnership with the U.S. Agency for International Development. I was invited to participate due to my previous experience in the region with the Northern Distribution Network. To be honest, I did not expect much from the meeting. I had attended many "New Silk Road" conferences that discussed making routes viable, sustainable, and predictable, but they often resulted in little action. My expectations for this meeting were low, but I always approach such events with optimism, so I decided to attend.

I was truly impressed by what the CLDP has accomplished. They have organized experts in transportation, logistics, customs, and border management across different countries, bringing them together to meticulously go through the processes involved from one country to another. They document every step and issue encountered at each meeting, creating a Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) to track progress. This plan is updated after every meeting and shared with all participants.

The expert group meetings focus on working out the details, identifying problems, and making recommendations to the Trans-Caspian Trade Route (TCTR) Advisory Board. These recommendations are included in the Trans-Caspian Trade Route Joint Action Plan on Soft Measures. The spreadsheets generated are practical documents that outline issues and suggested solutions created by the expert group. These are then followed up on by the coordinators from the region. The CLDP provides guidance, while knowledgeable individuals in the field work towards making significant improvements to the trade route.

I observed cross-country collaboration among working groups addressing road, rail, maritime, and customs issues, as well as input from 15 different associations related to road and rail transport. All discussions were conducted civilly and professionally. It was clear that the experts are eager to see processes simplified and streamlined to enhance the Trans-Caspian Super Highway.  This initiative opens up economies to one another and to the world, allowing everyone to benefit. It also contributes to the national security of the United States and the global community. This is diplomacy through business, and it highlights the importance of ongoing engagement. We should continue to support and recognize the valuable achievements of a small program like the CLDP.  These are low-cost solutions that drive big dividends.  The United States should continue with this very worthwhile program.  While much work remains to be done and the governments of the region must provide approval…can you not envision a Super highway?  The Trans-Caspian Corridor Route.  They are heading in the right direction.