Presidents set a $1bn trade target by 2030.

The Caspian route lets cargo reach Europe without crossing Russia or Iran.

Sanctions on Russia and war risk near Iran made the costlier Trans-Caspian ferry crossing worth the price.

Ferry and port capacity at Alat and Aktau, not politics, now caps how much moves.

Sources: Azeri - Press Informasiya Agentliyi, Euronews English, Anadolu Ajansı