Kazakhstan has completed a key stage in laying a Trans-Caspian Fiber Optic Cable across the seabed of the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are now connected by a direct digital link.
The submarine cable reached Kazakhstan’s coast, marking the completion of the most challenging phase of the project implemented by Kazakhtelecom and AzerTelecom International. The new Aktau-Sumgait route will provide a direct high-speed data corridor between Asia and Europe. The project is expected to improve the reliability of international communications and strengthen the transit potential of both countries.
Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhtelecom CEO Bagdat Mussin and AzerTelecom International CEO Ana Nakashidze observed the completion of the marine phase of the project from aboard the cable-laying vessel.
“The new route will strengthen Kazakhstan’s digital connectivity with global data transmission networks and lay the groundwork for the further development of AI, cloud technologies and modern data centers,” Madiyev said.
Work is underway to connect the cable to the coastal infrastructure. Construction of the onshore infrastructure is scheduled for completion this fall, followed by testing and commissioning of the system. CaspiLink B.V., a joint venture between Kazakhtelecom and AzerTelecom International, will be responsible for completing the construction and subsequent operation of the link.
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The project began in 2025. Specialists initially carried out engineering surveys, determined the optimal route, and tested the cable. Submarine cable laying began in July 2026. The work was carried out around the clock using a cable-laying vessel with a displacement of more than 20,000 tons. The project involved 70 specialists.
The project is financed entirely from the operators’ own funds, without public funding.
