TRACECA highly appreciates Turkmenistan's efforts in ensuring active development along the international transport corridor Europe-the Caucasus-Asia

Within the framework of the Agenda, the possibilities and further prospects for the development of the international transport corridor TRACECA were discussed.

During the exchange of views, Mr. A. Assavbayev informed Mr. Chakiyev about the current TRACECA initiatives that the Permanent Secretariat is working on and the status of their implementation, shared his vision for further improvement of multimodal transport, since the TRACECA countries are united by the Caspian and Black Seas, ensuring connectivity of the transport infrastructure of the regions.

In addition, the Secretary General noted that the Permanent Secretariat expects Turkmenistan's position regarding the readiness to sign the Agreement on a Single Transit Permit, join the Agreement on Development of Multimodal Transport, the Multilateral Permits System, etc.

Along with this, the sides also discussed the issue of simplification of visa procedures for drivers engaged in transportation in the TRACECA region and the readiness of the Turkmen Party to provide support in this matter.  

The transportation of goods by semi-trailers, the TRACECA Fund, the TRACECA Business Council, the e-CIM/SMGS pilot prototype, and the Vessel Concept were also included in the list of initiatives discussed.

Following the discussions, Mr. A. Assavbayev emphasized the need for the soonest appointment of the Permanent Representative (National Secretary) of the PS IGC TRACECA in Turkmenistan, who will promptly coordinate the implementation of TRACECA initiatives in the country.

Mr. M. Chakiyev assured Secretary General Mr. A. Assavbayev of his direct support, further efforts to promote initiatives and present Turkmenistan's position on all ongoing projects implemented within the framework of TRACECA activities.

During his visit to Turkmenistan, the Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA also took part in the solemn ceremony of commissioning the Tejen-Mary section of the Ashgabat-Turkmenabat high-speed highway, the opening of which took place under the leadership of President of Turkmenistan, H.E.Mr. Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The total length of the highway will be 600 kilometres. The highway has obtained international quality certificates confirming the high safety of the highway and the use of innovative high technologies in construction.

For reference:

- On November 14, 2023, Turkmenistan officially joined the TRACECA ranks, becoming a full member of the Basic Multilateral Agreement for Development of International Transport Corridor the Europe-the Caucasus-Asia (TRACECA).

- The Ashgabat-Turkmenabat highway is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Turkmenistan, which will provide automobile cargo flows with access to highways to the Asia-Pacific region and will serve as a high-speed transport artery for fast and cheap transportation of goods over long distances. The entire infrastructure is located along the highway, including parking lots, places of rest, shops, cafes, gas stations and more, necessary for the convenience of drivers and passengers.