The commencement ceremony for a railway linking China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan took place Friday in Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan, marking a significant milestone in the region's infrastructure development and laying a solid foundation for the construction of the project, according to the China State Railway Group, which oversees the project.

The project is expected to break ground in July 2025, with a construction timeline of six years.

The ceremony was a key step forward for the cross-border railway, which aims to improve connectivity between Central Asia and China as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. The railway is seen as a major cooperative effort between China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. This strategic infrastructure project is considered crucial in enhancing economic ties and regional connectivity between China and Central Asia.

The railway will begin in Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region of China, pass through the Turgart Port into Kyrgyzstan, then travel westward through the Kyrgyz border city of Jalalabad, and finally reach Andijan, a city in eastern Uzbekistan.

China will oversee the construction of the railway section within its borders, while Uzbekistan will upgrade and modernize the section within its territory. A joint venture company, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Co, will be responsible for financing, construction and operation of the section within Kyrgyzstan.

The railway's design in Kyrgyzstan calls for a single-track system, powered by diesel locomotives, with provisions for future electrification. The line, with a designed speed of 120 km/h in Kyrgyzstan, will feature 20 stations, including Turgart Station and Jalalabad Station.

The company said it would ensure the project begins on schedule, including carrying out detailed engineering designs, environmental assessments, and land acquisition.

Once completed, the railway is expected to play a transformative role in enhancing regional trade routes and boosting economies along the route. It will also serve as a critical strategic corridor for the region, facilitating the flow of goods and fostering greater cross-border cooperation, according to the company.