Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spoke at a teleconference dedicated to the start of construction of the Kyzylorda–Sekseuil, Ulgaisyn–Sekseuil and Beineu–Sekseuil highways. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
The head of state called the Beineu–Sekseuil route, where construction of a fundamentally new 800-kilometer road has begun, a highway of international significance. "This road, strengthening ties between the country's regions, will serve as a 'golden bridge' connecting China and Europe. This project will directly connect checkpoints on the border with China with the ports of Aktau and Kuryk. As a result, the length of cargo transportation from China to Europe will be reduced by 1,000 kilometers, and the delivery time – by up to 3 days," the president said.
The head of state recalled that in the understanding of our people, digging a well and building a bridge is considered a good deed. From this point of view, Kazakhstan is starting a very responsible work from which both itself and others will benefit, Tokayev said.
"It is obvious that the Beineu–Sekseuil direction will become an important road at the republican, regional and continental levels. Therefore, it would be correct to call this road the 'Aral-Caspian Highway'," the head of state said.
In addition, the president announced the start of work on expanding and radically modernizing the Kyzylorda–Sekseuil and Ulgaisyn–Sekseuil roads with a total length of 774 kilometers. "Domestic companies will be involved in the construction of these roads. More than 10,000 workers will be involved in the construction work. After the roads are fully completed, cargo transportation will increase 2.5 times and reach 13.2 million tons per year. These projects will undoubtedly give a new impetus to the development of the country's economy, tourism and improve the well-being of the people," the president said.
The head of state stressed that it is very important to complete the work started today in a timely manner, that is, no later than 2029.