The TRACECA-UNESCAP Joint Session: Developing multimodal transport and dry ports in Central Asia

The main objective was to strengthen coordination and exchange of experience between international organizations and countries in the region in developing multimodal transport and integrating dry ports into transport and logistics chains.

The event focused on discussing effective approaches to digitalization, increasing dry port capacity, optimizing cross-border procedures, and creating conditions for sustainable development of transport corridors between Asia and Europe.

In the first part of the session, the ESCAP experts presented updated approaches to developing dry port networks in North and Central Asia, as well as tools for collecting and exchanging information on transport facilities in the region.

The second part was devoted to TRACECA's experience and current initiatives on multimodal transport.

On behalf of the Permanent Secretariat of the IGC TRACECA, Mr Goran Andreev, Border-Crossing Expert, presented an overview of key areas of activity.

In his speech, he highlighted progress in implementing the TRACECA Agreement on Multimodal Transport; initiatives for the digital integration of dry ports with customs and rail systems; the results of pilot projects for the transportation of semi-trailers across the Caspian Sea; and prospects for the development of piggyback transport in Central Asia.

Representatives of transport ministries and agencies from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran, as well as experts from the SCO and research centers participated in the discussion.

The joint holding of the TRACECA-ESCAP Session demonstrated the close collaboration and alignment of approaches between the two organizations, united by the shared goals of developing regional transport connectivity and strengthening sustainable supply chains.

Such partnership assists the creation of a unified approach to developing multimodal routes, enhancing the efficiency of dry ports, sharing best practices and developing joint projects aimed at developing transport corridors between Asia and Europe.

On the outcome of the discussion, the participants confirmed their commitment to further cooperation in the areas of multimodal transport, digitalization, and infrastructure improvement.

TRACECA and UNESCAP expressed their intention to continue their joint work to strengthen transport connectivity, integrate dry ports, and develop modern logistics solutions that facilitate trade growth and sustainable development in the region.