TRACECA at the 2nd International Forum on Multimodal Transport: the development of joint operators and logistics hubs

The event became a continuation of the initiative started in Istanbul in 2023 and is aimed at strengthening coordination and interaction between the member countries of the OTS in the field of transport and logistics cooperation. The main goal of the Forum was the development of multimodal routes and joint operators, formation of a network of logistics hubs and centers, promotion of digitalisation, and the implementation of unified standards to ensure efficient and seamless transport connectivity in the region.

Ministers of transport and representatives of international organisations, including the Organization of Turkic States (the OTS), International Union of Railways (IRU), the Turkic Chamber of Commerce and Industry (the TCCI), the Turkic Investment Fund (the TIF), GIZ, the UN ESCAP, as well as heads of transport companies and associations from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye and Uzbekistan participated in the work of the Forum.

Speaking at the Panel Session "Prospects for the Creation of Joint Operators and Infrastructure: Joint Logistics Hubs and Centers," the Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA noted that multimodal transport is becoming a key element of modern logistics and international trade, emphasizing the need for coordination between carriers, operators, logistics companies, and government agencies.

Among the successful examples, he highlighted the establishment of the Middle Corridor Multimodal Ltd. by Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia, the development of the Alat port and FEZ in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan's external terminal network along the Middle Corridor, and the Concept for the Development of Uzbekistan's Transport and Logistics System until 2030, as an indicator of a strategic approach to developing a modern logistics infrastructure. Particular attention was paid to the issue of equal access to infrastructure and services, including ferry services on the Caspian Sea, which ensures a competitive environment and is consistent with the principles of the TRACECA Basic Multilateral Agreement.

The holding of the Forum marked another step in strengthening the coordination of transport policies among the countries of the region. TRACECA continues to remain a reliable platform for joining efforts and implementing joint projects in the interests of sustainable development of international transport corridors.