Russia and China are discussing financing and construction of a transit highway corridor beginning in Russia, passing through Central Asia and Iran, and connecting to Afghanistan and Pakistan via the Caspian Sea route. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin framed the initiative as part of Moscow's strategy to develop transit corridors and integrate regional economies. Afghan officials and economic analysts view the project as an opportunity to strengthen Afghanistan's position as a critical transit hub and increase bilateral trade with Russia and China.