An agreement has been signed between AZCON Holding, acting on behalf of Baku Shipyard LLC, and Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC

On September 16, 2025, a ceremony to exchange documents signed between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates was held in Shusha with the participation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, and the President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.  

At the ceremony, a contract was also signed between the public legal entity "Azerbaijan Transport and Communication Holding (AZCON)", acting on behalf of "Baku Shipyard" LLC, and "Abu Dhabi Ports Company" PJSC for the construction of two 780 TEU container ships intended to operate in the Caspian Sea. The ships, expected to be completed by 2028, will be deployed on key routes to optimize connectivity between major trade centers in the Caspian Sea.  

The newly built ships will play an important role in strengthening the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route), which connects Asia and Europe through the Caspian Sea, the South Caucasus, and the Black Sea. By expanding shipping capacity on this important route, the vessels will help meet the rapidly growing needs for container shipping, reduce transit times, and increase the competitiveness of the corridor as a sustainable and safe alternative to traditional routes. 

AD Ports Group, recognized as one of the world's leading port, logistics and shipping companies, brings to this partnership its global knowledge, advanced technologies and experience in managing complex trade corridors. AD Ports Group's participation in operations in the Caspian region is a clear example of the confidence in the Middle Corridor. This historic contract represents the first order placed by an international company for the construction of cargo ships at Baku Shipyard.  

In addition to its direct significance, this agreement, which lays the foundation for broader cooperation with AD Ports Group, paves the way for future joint projects in the field of maritime transport and logistics and further deepening of the strategic partnership between the two countries.