French rail engineer Alstom has signed a contract to deliver 117 freight locomotives to Kazakhstan. The agreement, announced on Monday, is part of Kazakhstan’s goal of modernising its transport networks, the Interfax news agency reports.

The deal was signed in Paris by Kazakhstan’s national rail company, Temir Zholy, and train-maker Electrovoz Kurastyru Zauyty.

Under the terms of the agreement, Alstom will provide electric locomotives and establish maintenance depots by 2028.

The agreement also aims to “implement innovative solutions that will support the development and growth of container cargo along the Middle Corridor” – a reference to the rail link that connects China and Europe.These solutions will place the emphasis on developing Kazakhstan’s engineering capacity.

The deal builds on a 15-year relationship between the parties. For example, in 2023, Alstom signed a €50m deal with Kazakhstan to build depots near the cities of Astana, Almaty, Arys and Shu.

Henri Poupart Lafarge, Alstom’s chief executive, said: “With over 1,200 employees in the country, we are dedicated to localising our products and services to support the national economy.

“Kazakhstan’s strategic position as a key regional hub with important transit corridors enables us to enhance our investment and partnership with the government and local stakeholders.”