Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu signaled a historic transformation by focusing on railway investments in Turkey’s transportation strategy. According to Minister Uraloğlu’s statement, in the 2026 budget, the share of railways in transportation investments will increase to 53%, while the traditionally dominant road transportation will be set at 39%. This balancing reflects the goal of increasing the railway’s share in freight and passenger transportation, which is currently 91% by road. This strategic shift also supports the priorities of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The Center of Global Trade: Middle Corridor and Development Road
Turkey plays a key role in global trade due to its position connecting continents. Minister Uraloğlu emphasized that the Middle Corridor is the shortest and safest trade route from Asia to Europe. Deliveries that take 45 days by sea can be completed in 18 days via the Middle Corridor and Marmaray using railways.
Additionally, the Development Road project, which extends from the Persian Gulf to Europe, will turn Turkey’s road and rail networks into the backbone of intercontinental trade. This massive investment of 24 billion dollars is expected to contribute 50 billion dollars in manufacturing and create 63,000 jobs. Turkey has recently reinforced its position as the center of global transportation diplomacy and regional cooperation through the Global Transportation Corridors Forum involving 80 countries.
